“Doodles” & Graphics.
Drawing, fine art—the presence of classic techniques in contemporary art. Graffiti stuff. Loose lines, deep meaning beyond Banksy’s world. This time, I’m introducing the French artist Pez, aka Pierre Yves Riveau, because he truly deserves it. His works, beside other techniques created on drawing paper with graphite and pen, reflect contemporary art’s graffiti and street art influences, incorporating elements of pop culture while adding his own distinctive stylistic touches.
Pop Culture
What makes his works unmistakably “Pez-like” are the unique elements he infuses into them. He has already twisted The Simpsons, Mickey Mouse, and even Banksy’s works to fit his own vision. But his artistry doesn’t stop at that stage.
The Crushing Grip of Society
Pez has visually expressed his opinion on the most pure victims of the refugee crisis. In his collection of hyper-realistic and street art-styled drawings on passports, he highlights the suffering of children caught in war-torn worlds. A battle against unfulfilled hope in the quest for a safer world.
Glitch – Those Wonderful Blessed Days
Through the pages of his sketchbooks, he holds up a mirror to the capitalist version of Christmas, narrating the typical “blessed” holiday season that we, as members of society, have constructed. Money Christmas. The flaw is within us—pointing fingers at others is pointless.
Insensitivity
Among his socially critical works are those dealing with child’s spirit, delivering a sharp critique of adults. In this series, he clearly illustrates how the soul takes shape. The responsibility is ours, yet we turn a blind eye and deaf ear.
We Take From the Children
Continuing with the theme of childhood innocence, Pez conveys a simple yet profound message—what we, as adults, take away from children. It’s worth paying attention to the meticulous details in his drawings and the mixed techniques he employs (paint and spray paint on wood surfaces).
Environmentalism
His works with direct messages address the exploitation of our planet—a destruction perpetuated by me, you, us, society as a whole. The majority of his creations spring from his imagination. A small drawing takes 6–10 hours to complete, while larger-scale works demand anywhere from 40 to 60 hours.
A Blend of Influences
His precise, detail-rich works were shaped in his youth by hip-hop culture and the world of graffiti. Later, he found inspiration in artists such as Dalí, Banksy, Klimt, Magritte, Escher, and many more, whose influence is evident in his drawings.
According to Pez, an artist is not obligated to create works with a message. His creations naturally absorb the pressing issues of society through the course of their development. Beyond the socially charged pieces mentioned above, he also creates works that draw on visual associations, freeing the imagination—such as his pixel-themed drawings from the series referenced earlier.
All the images belongs to the artist Pez,
and you can find more of his work
