Gérard Zlotykamien a.k.a. Zloty in Paris: A poignant free exhibition by the pioneer of Street Art

How about diving into the history and beginnings of urban art? From September 23 to October 28, 2023, Galerie Mathgoth invites us to discover a retrospective of Zlotykamien, the man who in 1963 laid the foundations of Street Art, becoming the pioneer of this universal and popular artistic movement. Although the Mathgoth gallery is behind this exhibition, it takes place in a different venue. It's in a raw space in the 13th arrondissement that we discover that Street Art, now celebrated worldwide, began with this daring French artist, affectionately nicknamed ZLOTY.

1963 is marked as a defining year. Zlotykamien, faced with censorship at the 3rd Paris Biennale, defied convention by choosing the street as his canvas, his space of freedom and expression. It was here that he began to draw his first"Ephemera", the evanescent figures that have since defined Street Art.

Theexhibition, orchestrated by passionate gallery owners and collectors Mathilde and Gautier Jourdain, brings together an eclectic selection of one hundred works. A fusion of videos, archival photos and previously unseen pieces testify to Zlotykamien's artistic genius. Particular attention is paid to the iconic enema pear, the artist's favorite instrument and unique signature.

Zloty's "Ephemera", which he draws on a variety of media, convey a poignant message. They remind us of the impermanence of life and invite us to reflect deeply on our human condition. His life, marked by hardship from an early age, has shaped his artistic vision, and his works bear witness to a life filled with painful memories, wars and injustice.

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Pleasenote: A book dedicated to the artist, Gérard Zlotykamien (éditions Lienart, 2022), is available, shedding further light on his rich and varied artistic career. In addition, to crown the exhibition, a fresco will be created not far from the gallery.

The exhibition awaits you at 1, rue Alphonse Boudard - 75013 Paris. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with special mornings reserved for school groups.

Paris invites art lovers and the curious to this unique artistic adventure this autumn. It's an exhibition not to be missed by those who cherish urban art in its purest form.