Karl Lagasse
Karl Lagasse – Street Art / Pop Art / Contemporary Sculpture
Nationality: French
Origins: Paris, from a family of artists
Movement: Street art, pop art, contemporary sculpture
Artistic Journey
Karl Lagasse began his artistic journey at the age of 7, creating collages with his mother. During this time, he met the French sculptor César Baldaccini, who encouraged him to pursue art. Later, he explored graffiti in the Paris metro. In 2003, he prepared his first exhibition in Paris, where he began incorporating his tags into collages, following the advice of artist Yvaral Vasarely, son of Victor Vasarely.
Major Works
One Dollar (2009): Iconic sculpture representing a one-dollar bill, symbolizing the idea of art being accessible to all.
Cryptogram One (2011): A 2-meter-high bronze sculpture installed at the entrance of Deauville, blending symbolism with modernity.
Buildings (2004–2012): Totemic sculptures inspired by New York skyscrapers, made of wood, glass, and cement, incorporating personal photographs.
Blockhaus de Bénerville (2009): A painting on a WWII bunker, featuring the message “Défense d’Haïr” (“Forbidden to Hate”), as a statement against war.
Deauville American Film Festival Trophy (2017): Designed the trophy awarded to the winners of the festival’s 43rd edition.
Style and Influences
Characteristics: Fusion of street art and pop art, use of varied materials such as wood, glass, cement, and bronze.
Themes: Value of art, spirituality, social critique, influence of American culture.
Influences: César Baldaccini, Yvaral Vasarely, pop art, street art.
Recognition and Legacy
Awards: Ranked among the top ten sculptors in the world under 30 by Artprice in 2009.
Exhibitions: Shown in prestigious galleries such as Galerie Isy Brachot in Brussels, Espace Pierre Cardin in Paris, and Opera Gallery in Paris, London, Miami, Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Monaco, New York, Dubai, and Geneva.
Collaborations: Designed the official trophy of the Deauville American Film Festival in 2017.
Quote
“Transforming the ordinary into a symbol.”