As we look forward to the upcoming new year and reflect upon this last year, an artist that truly IS the past, present and future of the street/contemporary art world, goes by the name of KAI.
The beauty in KAI’s story is that he is an artist who seems in constant connection to his community and himself. Once success finds an artist, there is often a struggle to keep the ego grounded and in check. Kai’s strength and longevity in the arts world is undoubtedly rooted in his ability to do just that, his big break coming at the age of 16. Being so young when starting out, Kai remembers the feeling of wanting something special to add to a collection but not being able to afford it. “I always made sure that the prints stayed at a reasonable price. I don’t want a print to go for $1,000, I want a print that everyone is able to afford.” (Kai Aspires, UP Magazine).
8 Bill Series
6.14" W x 2.61" L
TW Graphic Ink on Cotton Fiber Paper
Currency Toploaders & Custom Base Included
Bills & base come encased in a hand painted box numbered & signed
Ed of 300
6.14" W x 2.61" L
TW Graphic Ink on Cotton Fiber Paper
Currency Toploaders & Custom Base Included
Bills & base come encased in a hand painted box numbered & signed
Ed of 300
From humble beginnings, purchasing his own materials and keeping to the streets of LA, KAI decided very early on that he needed something to connect the masses to each other through a common thread. This thread was manifested through his creation of IF (Imaginary Friend). Eliminating the need for language to understand his art, “IF’s conflicts are depicted throughout Kai’s repertoire, and he serves as the vehicle for actions that everyone can sympathize with…the idea is that [IF has] no class, no sex, no religion. I want everyone to feel connected and relatable to the character.”” (Kai Aspires, UP Magazine).
Continuing to stay open to creative mediums, Kai’s subject matter is universal. Spanning themes such as love, money, greed, bureaucracy, heartache, war etc. he doesn't stray from difficult conversations. A unique aspect of Kai as an artist is how he focuses “...on bringing the beauty of galleries onto the streets. That is why I pay so much attention to how my works are framed.” (An Interview…,Street Art NYC).
Using methods of distribution that come naturally with the street art territory, Kai has built his audience from the ground up throughout the years. In a world of constant change, Kai remains steadfast in his ability to connect with people and their life experiences, something that street artists have been doing for decades. His adoption of new techniques like concrete paintings, mixed with his cultivation of a global community through his street art are why the future of street art hangs in the balance of the likes of KAI.
KAI x Beyond the Street
Hand crafted wood
12x17.2x5in
Ed250
Hand crafted wood
12x17.2x5in
Ed250
This holiday season, we celebrate KAI and his ability to bring joy, thougtfulness and creativity to people all across the globe. Let's take the spirit of KAI’S love for community to heart and ring in the new year sharing your love of art with friends and family. Go to a museum, find street art near you, visit us in person at 5Art Gallery, or share your 5Art Gallery pieces with us on social media.
Wishing You A Wonderful Holiday Season and Happy New Year from all of us at 5Art Gallery!
