JonOne in Gotham

agnès b. is pleased to announce an exhibition by artist JonOne to coincide with the launch of his ‘Candy Crush’ items for her Spring/Summer 2018 collection. The exhibition will consist of three large paintings by JonOne and other artworks from The 156 Allstarz.

John “JonOne” Perello first began to paint on New York City subway trains, which according to him, are "museums that cross the city." He soon made a name for his style and created abstract works influenced by movement, color and the energy of the city. His style set him apart from others as, at that time, the majority of other graffiti writers were working in more figurative styles. JonOne’s work explodes with energy and colors and the artist himself sees his art as ‘abstract expressionist graffiti.’

JonOne moved to Paris in 1987 where he began to work on movement, color, freedom of his line, between abstract art and street spirit, revealing his imagination and his optimistic vision of society. He met agnès b. and first showed his work at the Galerie du Jour in 1989. Their friendship has resulted in numerous collaborations, including exhibitions at the Galerie du Jour, live paintings, books, and Artists T-shirts.

The exhibition at 50 Howard Street will consist of three large canvases painted by JonOne. He has also invited other artists from The 156 Allstarz to participate in the show, including Faust, Gorey, Omni, Criz, Snatch, and Jez, who have created works especially for the exhibition.

Today, JonOne is globally recognized by his unique style that brings together hip hop, graffiti, and street art. His distinct and colorful style is both chaotic and composed. His work has been exhibited in a wide range of solo and group exhibitions around the world, including Tokyo, Monaco, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Moscow, Rome, Miami and Zurich.

In 2015, JonOne was commissioned to paint a large-scale work that is displayed in the French National Assembly in Paris. Later the same year, he was awarded the prestigious Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur by the French government to recognize his contribution to French culture. JonOne currently lives and works in Paris.