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Toxicómano
A graphic designer and publicist by profession, Toxicómano Callejero (whose name roughly translates as Street Junkie) rose to prominence as the leader of a group of Colombian urban artists who use their art as a means to combat what he calls “double and single standards.” He is a street artist in the purest sense of the expression: the urban landscape will always be his primary canvas.
Although his creations can mainly be found on the streets of Colombia’s biggest cities, Toxicómano’s work has occasionally found its way onto the walls of public buildings like the National Library of Colombia. As a result, his message has spread beyond the streets and the world of graffiti to gain wider recognition in the institutional sphere. In spite of this, he has never compromised his style, strength, or personal convictions.
The images and texts in his work are drawn straight from the world of graphic design. His immediate artistic influences are punk rock – especially the Spanish scene of the 1980s – global pop culture, street culture and mass communication strategies. His language and lettering recall the pasquinades of the 1950s, conveying universal social messages that leave a lasting impression on those who see them. He has created urban interventions in Germany, Sweden, Colombia, Mexico and the United States and participated in group shows in Canada, Spain and Italy.