Beams from the transcendental realms #7,, 2023

Simon Rohlen (KEF!)   Emerging artists

KEF!, or Simon Rohlen, is a contemporary artist born in 1989, originally from Germany. He moved to London in 2013 after seeing the proliferation of street art, hoping that there was a place for his style in this burgeoning movement. In 2015, he moved to Berlin. The artist's name means 'scar' which is how he perceives painting on walls, according to him street art is an indelible mark left by an artist. This is where his name comes from, making reference to a scar. He describes his style as abstract graffiti and he gives special attention to the balance and harmony of the patterns and compositions he creates.

As an artist he works instinctively and reaps inspiration from his personal meditations and from nature. The most important is that the viewer indulges in the multitude of lines and lets himself be transported until finding a sense of well-being and positive energy. KEF!'s work has evolved over the years. He is known for his compositions, specially for his great mural frescoes and his interior redesigning of the London, Berlin, Stuttgart and Hong Kong Urban Outfitters stores.

In 2019, KEF!, a renowned abstract artist, began his collaboration with Neue Kunst Gallery in Karlsruhe, Germany. Since then, the gallery has become his primary representative, showcasing his unique artistic style that blends smooth, harmonious lines with an innovative approach to abstract art. KEF!'s work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries around the world, including the Danysz Gallery in London and the Orlinda Lavergne Gallery in Mulhouse. His international presence continues to grow, with exhibitions that have solidified his place in the global art scene.

In addition to his gallery exhibitions, KEF! has expanded his artistic influence into the fashion world. He has worked on notable collaborations with brands such as Liebeskind, where he designed a handbag that seamlessly integrated his distinct artistic style. This fusion of art and design has garnered widespread recognition and further propelled KEF!'s reputation as a versatile and sought-after artist.