Greek street artists visit London for Femme Fierce

Three of the top female Greek street artists will be amongst the 150 artists taking part in the next edition of Femme Fierce in London. This on International Womens day 8 March 2015. Simoni Fontana, Mariana Cute and Cleo43 have been forging a name for themselves in Greece. The ‘Banksy Tunnel‘ in London being the next place to showcase their skills.

We’ve already met Thessaloniki based artist Simoni two years ago when she exhibited with the Artaz Gallery at the Moniker Art Fair. Her fragile and dreamlike artwork really caught our imagination. A real standout artist. She is one of the top female street artists working in the world today. We can’t wait to see what she’ll come up with.

Alongside her, two Athens based Greek female street artists Mariana Cute and Cleo43 will be painting in London for the first time. Both have unique styles. Cute interacts with the street furniture of daily life. Cleo’s original and slightly abstract work meanwhile is sure to draw attention.

All are represented by innovative Athens based studio Artaz. “I can’t stop thinking that more female artists should be out on the streets. Femme Fierce is doing just that” says Cleo. “Participating at the festival is an opportunity for me to contribute to this cause. To get involved with the global street art community.”

It’s a sentiment that is expressed for the other artists too. Representing a major opportunity to showcase their work on this major stage. Also to meet and work with other female street artists. The scene in Greece is particularly male dominated. So let’s now take a look at all three and what we can expect to see…

Simoni Fontana

Queen of Greek Street Art, Simoni Fontana works around the world. Fragile, dreamy and abstractly hinting at self-portraiture. Her style is characterized by an almost childlike innocence. It is equally effective on tiny canvases as it is on giant murals. Her references draw from Japanese iconography and manga. Filtered through a sensitive western outlook and her personal aesthetics she is dictated by pop surrealism. “Femme Fierce is such a great initiative. Putting the spotlight on the work of female street artists. Plus I love London! I so look forward to it.” says Simoni

Mariana Cute

Born in Athens, but working all over the place. She never misses the chance for a creative getaway. Her art draws from a fantasy world located inside her head. However it is also largely inspired by the world of advertising, branding and society’s consumerist mentality. She is a street artist, with an emphasis on the literal ‘street’ aspect. She is passionate about creating works either in situ or with the purpose of leaving them on the streets. Partial to large scale and prone to exuberant statements, Mariana’s work is positively optimistic. Her characters usually emerge in awkward locations. From building sites to remote beaches. She loves to surprise and interact with people. “I am super excited to have the opportunity to create live art together with an army of girls. We are going to have a blast!” says Mariana

Cleo43

From Athens, Cleo43 is a new but dynamic entry in the female Greek graffiti scene. An active member of the Athenian Street Art community. Her style is characterized by its naive quality and is rooted in international folklore. Her throw-ups and trademark masks are typically executed in vibrant colours. Reflective of the artist’s exuberant personality. “Participating at the festival is an opportunity for me to contribute to this cause. To get involved with the global street art community” says Cleo.