Martin Whatson

martin whatson

Martin is recognized for his distinctive calligraphic gestures set against monochromatic backgrounds. Over the past decade, he has cultivated a signature aesthetic that fuses abstract movement with stenciled figurative compositions. His works reflect the ebb and flow of urban life, symbolically reconstructing cityscapes and then artistically defacing them to reveal vibrant, transformative layers.

Raised in Oslo, Norway, Martin was actively involved in the burgeoning graffiti scene of the late 1990s, a period marked by strict enforcement against street art. The city’s architecture served as a lasting source of inspiration, with each generation’s mark contributing to its evolving landscape. This focus on both construction and deconstruction is reflected in his creative influences, including José Parlá and Cy Twombly. In the early 2000s, Martin introduced stenciling to his process, adding a new dimension to his work. This evolution led him toward a minimalist yet impactful aesthetic that he believed could unify the passion and spontaneity he found in graffiti with the delicate, ephemeral qualities of nature. This synthesis has become central to his artistic approach.

Martin’s work has been featured at festivals, in public art projects, and on walls worldwide. His original pieces are included in private collections and public institutions, and he has held solo exhibitions in major cities such as Tokyo, Los Angeles, London, and New York.