Getting Through The Walls (2008) Printmaking by Blek Le Rat

Blek le Rat, whose real name is Xavier Prou, is a French street artist and one of the pioneers of the urban art and stencil graffiti movements. Born in Boulogne-Billancourt, France, in 1952, Blek le Rat gained international recognition for his work during the 1980s and is considered a significant influence on many contemporary street artists, including the renowned British artist Banksy.

Blek le Rat is known for his use of stencils, which he used to create intricate and detailed artworks on urban walls and buildings. His art often conveys social and political messages, and his pieces have appeared in cities around the world. One of his most iconic images is a rat, which is a recurring motif in his work and inspired his chosen pseudonym.

While Blek le Rat's work shares some similarities with the later street art movement that emerged in the 21st century, he is distinguished by the fact that he began creating street art using stencils several years before many of his contemporaries. His art is often characterized by its thought-provoking and socially conscious themes, which he presents in a visually striking and accessible manner.

Blek le Rat's contributions to the street art movement have left a lasting impact on the genre, and he is recognized for helping to popularize the use of stencils as a method of artistic expression in the urban environment. His dedication to art as a form of public communication and activism has made him a respected figure in the world of street art.

• Nationality: FRANCE
• Date of birth : 1951
• Artistic domains: Represented by a Gallery,
• Groups: Contemporary French Artists Artists presented by a gallery