TILT | Bleu Pétrole (Petroleum Blue)

"The idea of having several possible interpretations of the same image, or of the same object, is pretty close to the issue that traditional graffiti may raise. What is the message? Who is this painting for? Why do I not have the skills that allow me to understand the meaning of these letters? I often choose my subjects for their specific forms, as each one will have many stories to tell for it. Then the fact of achieving a specific calligraphic graffiti, where the accumulation and the association of specific colors (here those of the American flag somewhat diverted) will make the work of art somehow confusing to read. Thus the person passing by will be facing all these graffiti without ever understanding their real meanings. It’s then his choice to wonder if that will prevent him from enjoying the piece. Therefore, all the interpretations, be they political, philosophical, or concerning the subversive nature of the painting, are left to each individual’s appreciation." TILT

Tilt’s focus on letters, high-impact shapes and strong colors is a true reflection of his roots, paying homage to the streets, train yards and graffiti artists of Toulouse in the 1970’s and 1980’s – his inspiration and training ground. Since his first tags on a skateboard ramp in 1988 and throughout his lustrous career of international acclaim, Tilt has demonstrated that basic and traditional graffiti can be as strong and powerful as complicated 3D lettering and wild characters. In line with Tilt’s classic graffiti style, a “throwup” (a graffiti term for a writer’s spray painted name incorporating fast lines in one or two colors) is the often the focal point of his works.  But for Tilt, his throwup styles are as much about action as they are about art. His signature bubble letter throwup is vibrant reminder of the pleasure and the risk involved in graffiti – a vital combination for a self-proclaimed “graffiti fetishist” such as Tilt.