Behind the Mural: Kaleidoscopic Work

In continuation of our newest blog series, Behind the Mural, we’re spotlighting Kaleidoscopic Muralist Lakwena, a London-based and London-born artist. Most of her work combines the use of pattern and acid-bright colour with text to subtly subvert prevailing mythologies. Her murals borrow from the techniques and conventions of traditional sign-writing and contemporary graphic design, ultimately using decoration as a means of communication. 

Because of this, she likes to challenge who and what we as a society decorate, and she does this by positioning these kaleidoscopic colours, bold patterns and adornments as “powerful signifiers to redefine and reassign value and glory.”

Her mural at ROW DTLA, Count It All Joy, is an example of her desire to challenge the status quo. It’s a reminder that art isn’t elitist, and that anyone can (and should) be able to enjoy it. It’s a reminder that life is filled with suffering, and we can choose how we experience it. It’s a reminder that we are all in this together and that joy is one of those universal feelings we all crave. It’s a sign of optimism and hope when we need it the most. 

Photo: @sawyertheminidood

Beyond her work and her London roots, Lakwena spent some of her more formative years in Addis Ababa and Nairobi. Her effusive outdoor murals can be found in diverse cities from Miami to London, and of course, Los Angeles. Share this message of hope the next time you visit ROW, or simply come to experience it yourself. Joy can be found here, we promise.