FAITH XLVII : CLAIR-OBSCUR

The artist delves into themes that resonate with contemporary philosophical concerns ー the rising tide of violence, ecological catastrophes, and the pervasive sense of anxiety in the face of an uncertain future. Yet, FAITH XLVII steadfastly avoids succumbing to despair, encouraging viewers instead to embrace nature and the cosmos, prompting a reevaluation of our perception of the world. Her drawings of strong roots or her sceneries of snow-covered mountains beckon the viewers to transcend their weariness through contemplation and marvel.

Considered a pioneer of graffiti, the self-taught FAITH XLVII began to make art in 1997 at the age of 16 in her home country of South Africa, at a time when women were very rare in the field.  

She initially worked mainly on canvas, but she never quite left the urban art world. She created works in the outdoor space offered by the street, on road signs, doors or by expressing herself directly on walls. She favours abandoned places and makes a name for herself with the diversity of techniques in her repertoire: spray paint, ink, graphite, oil paint or collage...
Early on, FAITH XLVII demonstrated a taste for experimentation that she went on to develop from 2006 onwards: she started using different media and techniques to build up a multidisciplinary practice. Starting out as a muralist, she became a video artist, sculptor, weaver and draughtswoman. FAITH XLVII’s work now spans across many media and formats, from the monumental to the most intimate.

FAITH XLVII has done murals in many countries in Europe but also in Northern America and in Africa, namely in her native country of South Africa. She has also exhibited works in cultural institutions such as the museums of Fine Arts of Nancy and Calais, France or the Brooklyn Museum, USA. Clair-Obscur is her first show at Danysz Gallery Paris, after having been exhibited in London in 2020. She lives and works in Los Angeles.