How I exhibited with Banksy in 2024

Matt Ketmo

The year 2024 marks a significant turning point in my artistic journey. With modest beginnings, working alone and sharing my creations on social media, this start of the year has seen remarkable evolution.

  • ✍️ I am currently passionate about a series of bust drawings using a BIC pen, blending classical art with modernism.

  • 🎨 Invited by my friend Hopare, I had the opportunity to exhibit four of his busts in January and sold them all.

  • 🤩 This allowed me to truly (re)gain recognition and follow up with a second exhibition alongside iconic figures of contemporary street art, such as Banksy.

The Evolution of My Artistic Style

For nearly 2 years, I have been exploring a new medium that is none other than the ballpoint pen.

This primarily came to me by observing other artists on social media. Wanting to take on the challenge of creating complex works with such a simple and accessible tool, I gradually improved my mastery of this art as a self-taught artist.

At the end of 2023, I began a series of busts created with a BIC pen, merging classical art with a touch of modernity.

Matt Ketmo BIC Bust 001

I must say that I love creating blends of styles, and this seems to resonate with the public 😁

The Opportunities of 2024

The year 2024 has marked a decisive turning point in my journey. I had the honor of participating in several exhibitions in the Paris region, where my works were warmly received.

The "100% Paper" Exhibition by Hopare

Invited by my friend and famous artist Hopare, I had the opportunity to exhibit 4 works from my new series of drawings at BIC.

Each one features a different color in reference to the famous BIC 4 colors pen.

Matt Ketmo BIC 4 colors Busts drawing

The success of these works was a pleasant surprise. The gallery owners Eliott and Warren from Urban Signature told me that my works could have been sold multiple times.

My work was also recognized by SortirAParis.com, citing me as a "new talent" to follow 🤩

New Exhibition: Le décryptage de l'Art de Rue

This recognition opened the door to a second exhibition last month, "Le décryptage de l'Art de Rue", where I had the honor of sharing space with prestigious names in Street Art such as:

It is an incredible opportunity and a tremendous honor to have exhibited alongside these legends of street art. Sharing the same exhibition space as world-renowned artists like Banksy is a remarkable moment in an artistic career 😎

Matt Ketmo BIC Bust 001

Exploration and Innovation

Beyond realistic busts, I am also exploring more abstract concepts. My collage Glitch 001 and my drawing Mini 001, which combines a portrait of a woman with geometric shapes, have both quickly found their audience.

I am particularly proud to present Mini 002, a work that resembles a two-tone blue-pink collage made solely with the same BIC pens.

Matt Ketmo Mini 002 preview

Matt Ketmo Mini 002 making of

In summary, although my presence on Instagram has stagnated for 3 years, my passion for drawing and the interest in my work in the real world have not waned. My goal of holding my first exhibitions has materialized beyond my expectations.

These exhibitions have opened new doors and created valuable connections in the art world, giving me the confidence to continue my artistic evolution.

I have also launched a newsletter to share my news and latest creations in advance, adopting a transparent and direct approach with those who follow my journey.

You will find on this page how to subscribe. Small surprises await you! 🎁

I look forward to seeing you soon for new artistic adventures.