Written by Lola Bernal
From drawing to graffiti, the artist Arkane recounts his beginnings with emotion, on the set of the show “You are wonderful” presented by Ariane Brodier.
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Exhibitions, a collection of clothing, monumental frescoes, Arnaud de Jésus Gonçalves, better known by his artist name “Arkane”, knows how to make people talk about him.
What is interesting for me as an artist is to provoke reactions and to exchange with people.
On the set of the show “You are wonderful”, the muralist looks back on his beginnings.
Very young, in the playground, “almost automatic manner”Arnaud isolates himself from his school friends to draw. From year to year, this passion intensifies thanks to his grandfather, a craftsman/ironworker who is used to working with his hands.
I found it fascinating, making a living with your fingers, that must have had an impact on me.
Arnaud de Jesus Gonçalves
In his studio, the young designer spent a lot of time with his grandfather. “He worked with metal, and I saw him doing things with his ten fingers… He seemed so passionate. He didn’t complain, he loved what he did”explains Arnaud.
-At 13, the artist discovered graffiti magazines on newsstands. “Graffbombz”, “Innercity” or even “GraffitiAllStar”, he preciously collects these books that inspire him.
I see colors, deployed on the walls and especially the beginning of the big scenes where the characters come to life.
Arnaud de Jesus Gonçalves
It was precisely at this moment that he realized his potential and wanted to do the same thing: paint on walls. Arriving at high school, he squatted in a bomb store and discovered this culture alongside his STI applied art baccalaureate. “I make friends. I’m starting to go painting in the field and get introduced to the guys from the Avignon scene: Polo, Zago, Goddog, Rnst, Dens”specifies the artist. These are Arkane’s debut.
After a few trips, a bit of stencils and lettering, he decided to dedicate himself to what he knows how to do: drawing. Characters, settings, atmospheres, he returns to his initial wish. At 18, he discovered art history, graphics, composition and color. He is sure of himself, this environment will be his life. So, he set out and founded his own business. With his skills, he finds work but the ends of the month are difficult.
My parents supported me until I was 22. They help me pay my rent, encourage me.
Life goes on and one fine day, Arkane becomes independent.
From the age of 21 to 26, he participated in the opening of a gallery workshop in downtown Montpellier, which would be a collective of artists. This collective is L’Atelier Triptyque. “HAS At the time, it was a painting studio, a little dilapidated, but it was our little temple, where we met almost daily.”explains the artist. Sale of paintings, creation of walls, illustration projects, little by little, things are falling into place. His passion and will remain intact.
Today the projects have become sustainable and collaborations are increasing.
In 2024, the oldest French jeans brand and manufacturer decided to collaborate with the artist to launch a clothing collection. An ambitious project in the heart of the Cévennes.
All “You are wonderful” shows are available for replay on the france.tv platform.
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