Julian “Seth” Malland, a French street artist, is currently in Ukraine where he recently completed a large mural in Kharkiv (below). Seth considers himself to be “a painter, a traveler, and a bit of journalist.” He tells the stories of his travel through his art and publications. “For me, [art] is an innovative way to travel, to discover the world and to exchange knowledge.” Critics view his work as “public art,” not “urban art.” “I don’t paint in urban areas exclusively, and my work is destined for the people.” Seth loves interacting with people, in particular with children who are on the streets. He commented that his pieces are “futuristic and a little naïve. I don’t have any pessimism in my work. I try to keep a childish vision on the world.”
Through his travels, Seth has garnered a heavy influence from local artists, such as Neuzz and Charqui Punk of South America. When discussing his strengths and weaknesses, the street artist quoted legendary comic book artist, illustrator and painter Jean Giraud aka Moebius: “Moebius was aware that he was not the best drawer, not the best colorist and not the best at telling stories, but the end result of his work was always interesting. I add up my strengths and weaknesses for a result that resembles me.”
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