Roa, born in 1976 in Ghent, Belgium, is a prominent street artist known for his captivating murals that blend themes of life, death, and the afterlife. From a young age, Roa dreamed of becoming an archaeologist, collecting small skulls of birds and rodents to paint them at home. Growing up in the vibrant culture of the 1980s, his love for music – particularly hip-hop – sparked his interest in street art. Today, Roa creates large-scale works in major cities around the world, including London (especially around Brick Lane in Shoreditch), New York, Berlin, Los Angeles, Mexico City, and Paris. Like many European street artists, Roa maintains his anonymity, allowing his work and spirit to remain free.
An Obsession with Animals
Roa is renowned for his "obsession" with animals, particularly rodents. His artwork often features living creatures, skeletons, and internal organs, resulting in a strikingly realistic portrayal. As he explains, "Organs are the vital materials of our bodies, and they represent much of the symbolism I love." He often chooses to depict endangered species to raise awareness.
Typically, Roa focuses on painting wildlife or urban animals native to the area where he creates. For instance, he has painted rats in New York and elephants in Bangkok. In London, his depictions of rodents and mice showcase an extraordinary attention to detail. While he predominantly uses a minimal color palette of black and white, he also produces vibrant works that highlight the flesh and internal systems of the animals and birds he paints.
The creatures he paints are depicted in their "natural" states – whether solitary or in groups, active or resting, skeletal or in motion. Roa aims to address the cruelty and absurdity of the relationship between humans and animals, emphasizing the origins and roots of the beings he portrays. His method is relatively consistent; he travels extensively and adapts to the surroundings, allowing inspiration to flow from the buildings and objects around him, which he channels into his artwork. Each of his detailed creations can take hours or even days to complete. However, most of his works are done with permission, allowing him to work without pressure, and they typically remain on the streets for years.
