Street art is a unique form of creative expression that often reflects an artist’s opinion or reaction to current events. Unlike traditional art, it incorporates its surroundings, making it inseparable from its environment. One artist who has brilliantly exemplified this concept is French street artist Clet Abraham, who has made a name for himself in Florence, Italy. His unconventional approach involves using road signs as his canvas, turning everyday street symbols into thought-provoking art pieces.
A Journey from Traditional to Street Art
Clet Abraham’s journey as an artist has been as dynamic as his creations. In a recent interview, Clet shared insights into his evolution from traditional art forms to street art. “I have always done art, from painting to sculpture to restoration,” he explained. “For about 15 years, I have focused on working with road signs and urban sculptures.” His fascination with street life and public spaces inspired him to bring his art into the open, transforming the streets into his gallery.
Initially working in a more classical style, Clet was always drawn to the energy and movement of the street. “I love the street; I’ve always enjoyed walking and observing it,” he said. Upon moving to Florence, he noticed the discord between modern road signs and the city’s Renaissance architecture. “They break the harmony and context,” he observed. This observation led to his first experiment of turning a simple dead-end sign into a meaningful piece of art that harmonized with Florence’s historic aesthetic. “It felt natural to transform it into art, to give continuity to the art that permeates and characterizes the city,” Clet recalled.
The Creative Process
Clet’s creative process is meticulous and can take years to develop. “My creative process, as simple as it may seem, is actually very long,” he noted. “Sometimes it can take me years to perfect and convince myself that a subject can be placed in the street.” He aims to keep his designs minimal, ensuring they retain the original message of the sign while introducing a new layer of meaning. His goal is to make art that’s accessible and easily understood by the public—a key characteristic of street art. “After many years, I devoted myself to the synthesis and simplification of subjects, to ensure they can be read and understood by as many people as possible.”
Impact on Urban Landscape
Clet Abraham’s work has reshaped how people view the everyday symbols that guide us through urban landscapes. By blending art with public infrastructure, he adds a touch of creativity to the city’s rhythm, encouraging viewers to see the world around them with fresh eyes. His distinctive style not only captures attention but also invites reflection on the ordinary elements of our environment.
Through his innovative approach, Clet has turned mundane road signs into a form of social commentary, making people smile, think, and engage with their surroundings in new ways. His work is a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to redefine our interactions with urban spaces.
Image source: Instagram
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