Blek Le Rat, known as the “Father of stencil graffiti” visited San Francisco for his new solo exhibition “Lets Get Romantic” at the Weinstein Gallery. Ending on May 19th, the title is based on his feelings about San Francisco, which he feels is the most romantic city in the US. Although to Blek, the word Romantic has little to do with dating or relationships. He says San Francisco is romantic because it leaves visitors with strong beautiful memories; the scenic beauty, the people and neighborhoods all have a distinct charm.
The exhibit and his street paintings are a tribute to Blek’s first visit to San Francisco in 1991. Blek was in New York and ended up hitch hiking across the United States to San Francisco, where he knew no one. He met, and crashed in an apartment with ten other people in the Haight neighborhood. Spending several weeks living in the Haight area with strangers and exploring the city left him with unforgettable memories which he still continues to praise.
During his stay, Blek also did four street paintings. The first on Haight Street at the Red Victorian Inn, which not only pays homage to his first visit but is on the same building which originally was the site of Banksy’s famous ”Haight Street Rat” – Blek is also featured in the movie ”Saving Banksy’‘ which chronicles how the Haight Street Rat was preserved and protected for public viewing.
Blek’s second street painting was at the Hastings College of Law. The location is two blocks from City Hall and across the street from the Asian Art Museum. Blek chose this location because the Universities motto is ”Justice for All”. His work often focuses on the themes of justice, liberty and freedom. The location was also chosen because of his love of Asian art. The third was done at a new facility called ”The Midway” in the Dog Patch neighborhood. This location was chosen because it is quickly becoming the new ”arts” area for San Francisco. The location offers affordable work space for artists. The last work is located outside the Weinstein Gallery, on 444 Clementina St in a secluded alley in the SOMA district. Blek chose this spot as a hidden surprise for the pedestrian busy section of the city.
“Lets Get Romantic” By Blek Le Rat
May 4th – May 19th 2018
Weinstein Gallery
444 Clementina Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Blek Le Rat: Website | Instagram | Facebook
Weinstein Gallery: Website | Instagram | Facebook
