The smooth and untainted surfaces of the Gambian walls must have been sensory paradise for Belgian graffiti artist Roa in Gambia this summer. Known for introducing exotic animal murals into urban landscapes like some zoologist of the 2-Dimensional, this time the Gambia provides the medium for some of his most stunning work in an effort to improve public's accessibility to art. This may be my new fav' street artist. On one hand Roa's work fits right in, on the other it contrasts wonderfully with reality.
The light sandy red hues of this west African country is the perfect canvas for making his signature black and white detailed pictures pop. The open spaces provide an unhindered view of the massive animals; a lazy elephant seen sleeping, a monkey on a bike, a bird as big as a house. Roa in Gambia produces pictures that are insanely realistic too and add wonderful value to the spaces these animals inhabit. The work is part of a charitable project called 'Wide Open Walls' meant to give local communities access to public art, liven spaces and improve tourism.
Roa wanted to dedicate this work to James and Malang who passed away during the project.
Not on front page