Lady K, born in 1978 in Blanc-Mesnil, is an iconic figure of French urban art. She began her artistic journey in her adolescence, exploring various mediums and techniques, ranging from graffiti to surrealism. Enrolled at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and the Panthéon-Sorbonne University, she fully dedicated herself to graffiti art from 2000, definitively adopting the pseudonym Lady K in 1998.
Lady K 156
Lady K : Pioneer and Visionary of Female Urban Art
Techniques and Artistic Approach
Lady K is recognized for her expertise in lettering, which she elevates to the level of art through rigorous practice and limitless creativity. She reinvents the “block letter” and “wild style,” merging English calligraphy and traditional graffiti to create a unique graphic universe. Her double polychrome cut technique produces complex and colorful works, leaving a lasting impression on passersby and critics alike.
Inspirations and Themes
Lady K’s works are deeply influenced by science and mathematics. Fascinated by the work of scientists like Einstein, Planck, and Marie Curie, she incorporates equations and geometric shapes into her creations. This multidisciplinary approach allows her to create works that are not only visually captivating but also intellectually stimulating. Her works often explore themes of nuclear and electromagnetic interaction, gravity, and the fundamental forces of the universe. On our website, we feature the extension of the Moby Dick hotel and the restaurant Table du Moby Dick which showcase her works.
Collaborations and Projects
Lady K has collaborated with numerous renowned artists, thereby expanding her artistic horizons. Notable collaborations include projects with New York artist Swoon, addressing themes like climate change, and with Shepard Fairey, promoting gender equality. She also participates in initiatives such as the “Women on Walls” project, aimed at increasing the visibility of female street artists, and the “Color the City” campaign, which brings art and color to underprivileged urban areas.
Impact and Legacy
Lady K’s influence goes far beyond the walls she paints on. Her work sparks conversations about gender, race, and sociopolitical issues, challenging the status quo and encouraging viewers to think critically about the world around them. Through her works, Lady K has helped transform graffiti from a clandestine activity into a recognized and respected art form. She paves the way for a new generation of street artists while using her platform to advocate for the rights and recognition of women in this field.
Mentorship and Advocacy for Rights
As a leading figure in the urban art community, Lady K is committed to mentoring young artists, especially women, offering workshops and training sessions to help them develop their skills and find their unique voice. She actively advocates for gender equality in the art world, using her influence to dismantle the systemic barriers that have historically excluded women.
Lady K and the 156 Collective
Lady K is a prominent member of the renowned 156 collective, an international group of graffiti artists known for its diversity and impact on the urban art scene. This collective includes world-renowned talents such as Jonone, Psychoze, André, and Os Gemeos. As a member of 156, Lady K has been able to collaborate with these top-level artists, enriching her own style and sharing her innovative lettering and graffiti techniques. Her participation in this collective has strengthened her presence on the international stage while contributing to ambitious and diverse artistic projects that challenge street art conventions.
Lady K continues to leave her mark on the world of urban art with each new work and every act of mentorship. Her distinctive style, unwavering commitment to her art, and mission to empower others make her an essential figure in modern graffiti. Through her work, she demonstrates that art can be a powerful vehicle for change, resistance, and healing, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who encounter her creations.
On her Insta, discover her world virtually or come discover it in Santa Giulia.
Artwork by Lady K in a suite of the Moby Dick hotel.