Retna (American 1979-), 'Untitled', unique acrylic and spraypaint on canvas; canvas: 152.5 x 152.5cm
Auction: Tate Ward @ Artsy - By Collectors For Collectors, ending 15th May, 2025
RETNA, born Marquis Lewis, is known for his large paintings featuring elongated, geometric scripts that hint at a hidden language. His work draws inspiration from Egyptian hieroglyphics, Arabic and Hebrew calligraphy, Gothic blackletter, and graffiti. Starting as a graffiti artist in Los Angeles, he has since exhibited in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and London, with pieces often fetching five-figure prices. RETNA has collaborated with brands such as Louis Vuitton, Nike, and Chanel, designed an album cover for Justin Bieber, and created stage sets for Aida at the Washington National Opera and San Francisco Opera.