tom kiewra

the modern vandal

Most children grow out of their “drawing on the wall phase” as a child, but few people cultivate it into a skill. That’s the narrow path of a graffiti artist. Tom Kiewra, the modern vandal.

Kiewra's journey began at twelve with his first spray of paint on a wall, solidifying his path forward. He explored various styles of graffiti, from tagging and throw-ups to pieces and calligraphy. He experimented endlessly until he developed his own unique style.

Influenced by different artists, designers and graffiti writers. Kiewra's passion drove him to paint walls, trains and subways across Europe, despite the risks and legal consequences.

Behind the mask of most urban artists lies a rebel. Kiewra was expelled from art school, which prompted him to pursue graphic design. Here, he channeled his talents and discovered a new passion for branding and logo design. Fuelling his love for letters even more.

In 2019, he transitioned from illegal graffiti to legal art, blending his graphic design skills with his love for letters and graffiti. Kiewra rented his first studio in 2020, where he began creating high-quality works of his own. Drawing inspiration from Amsterdam's rich graffiti heritage, he created artworks reflecting his experiences and surroundings.

Over the past four years, Kiewra's art has gained international recognition. Some of his notable clients include DJ Chuckie, Jay-Jay Boske, and rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine. He has collaborated with major brands, working with STRAAT Museum and painting several murals for ESPN. Kiewra also starred in an ESPN commercial and painted a captivating mural. He has exhibited his work at various art shows, including winning an open call from Miami Art Week and showcasing his work during Art Basel.

Kiewra is pushing the envelope by taking writings off the paper and onto the canvas.

He experiments with different letter styles, new color combinations, and merges art with design. His mission is to challenge the boundaries of the art world, transitioning from covert graffiti to legal urban art. He challenges the negative perception of a graffiti artist by painting a luxurious story.