Madison Gallery on South Cedros Street is gearing up to showcase the work of Southern California graffiti artist, “RETNA.” Monday, he painted a mural for all to see.
SOLANA BEACH, Calif. — Madison Gallery on South Cedros Street is gearing up to showcase the work of Southern California graffiti artist, Marquis Lewis, internationally known as “RETNA,” and on Monday, he painted a mural for all to see.
“RETNA” is known for his unique penmanship, inspired by calligraphy.
His mural, so far, says “Mark Graves, Madison, Solana Beach, California, Surf and Skate.” Plus, more will be added on.
“I’m influenced by a lot of cultures that are from Southern California… Not a lot of people could always afford the pieces that I do, so this is a way, like, they get to see the work, get to live with the work. What the work originally started from was from the street, so it’s a good way to juxtapose the two together,” Lewis said.
The Los Angeles-native has showcased his work on a global scale, including high-profile collaborations with Louis Vuitton and Chanel.
Madison Gallery owner Lorna York told CBS 8 that her goal is to introduce international contemporary artists, like Lewis, to the community in San Diego County.
“I think his language is a multi-language. People read their own readings into his hieroglyphics. And, being a street artist, he’s bridging communities… His language is to speak to the people,” York said.
Meanwhile, his exhibit, “Carta de Amor,” will run from September 3 to October 11 at Madison Gallery.