EL PEZ

José Sabaté, known as PEZ, is an urban artist born in Barcelona in 1976.

A prominent figure in street art, PEZ began tagging and painting graffiti in Barcelona in 1999. He discovered that his character could convey good vibes and positivity to passers-by. Within a few years, he began travelling and painting around the world, adopting the smile as a universal message that could reach everyone.

His fish character grew out of experimentation and a desire to do something constructive on the walls of his city. This always-smiling alter ego appears throughout his work, surrounded by vivid colours and a sense of optimism. His practice is a joyful journey from classic graffiti to experimental pop art.

Over the years, PEZ has continued to travel, paint and exhibit in galleries around the world, including Barcelona, Paris, Amsterdam, London, Berlin, Vienna, Oslo, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Bogotá and Mexico City.

PEZ is an established figure in international urban art. His work appears in street-art books including “Street Logos”, “Ultimate Street Art”, “The Art of Rebellion”, “The Mammoth Book of Street Art”, “Carnet de Rue” by French artist JR, and “Graffiti and Street Art” in the World of Art series. He also appears in Banksy’s film “Exit Through the Gift Shop” and has collaborated with brands including Adidas, Toyota, Reebok, Ecko Unltd., K-Swiss, X-Large, UVD Toys, Kidrobot and Modelo.

His works have been auctioned in France by Tajan, Artcurial, Blancs Manteaux and Aguttes.