BIOGRAPHY

PWOZ [proze] is a pioneering French urban artist from the first generation of graffiti creators, renowned for his relentless dedication to redefining the boundaries between street art and fine art for over 35 years.

Beginning his journey on walls in the late 1980s, PWOZ has since transformed graffiti from its rebellious roots into a sophisticated, expressive art form. His vibrant work takes viewers on a visual journey, merging colorful characters, dreamy landscapes, and intricate graffiti lettering to create a new language of artistic expression.

In 1995, PWOZ became a key member of the Parisian graffiti crew MAC (Mort Aux Cons), leaving an indelible mark on graffiti’s evolution with monumental works across Europe. Through collaborations with influential figures such as LOOMIT (Germany) and American legends like COPE2, SONIC, and the TATS Cru, MAC established itself as a force in reshaping graffiti’s global impact.

Art has always been PWOZ’s calling, driven by a deep desire to break free from conventional paths. Inspired by his uncle, TONY BOUMBA, a celebrated choreographer with the Caribbean band KASSAV', PWOZ's journey took on new meaning after his uncle’s untimely passing. By the age of 16, he had set out with a singular focus: to master the art of painting and redefine graffiti as a respected form of fine art.

His early years were marked by a dual pursuit of formal education and underground artistry. While studying at the prestigious École Boulle in Paris, PWOZ dedicated his nights to perfecting his graffiti techniques, transforming city streets into his personal canvas. With his crew RAW (Real Authentic Writers), he honed his skills, eventually leading to large-scale murals that challenged perceptions of graffiti as mere street vandalism.

By 2002, PWOZ had solidified his role as a leader in graffiti’s evolution. Alongside KONGO and the MACrew, he co-founded Paris' first international graffiti festival, KOSMOPOLITE, a groundbreaking event that reshaped the narrative around street art. Over 11 editions, the festival brought together over 700 artists from around the world, promoting graffiti as a legitimate and respected artistic discipline. PWOZ’s influence extended through global festivals, collaborating with artists like PEQUE (Mexico) and BENHIO (Brazil), each project further expanding graffiti’s reach into the realm of fine art.

Beyond the streets, PWOZ’s diverse artistic ventures include collaborations with major brands and institutions, carefully selecting projects that align with his mission to elevate graffiti’s artistic status. Whether creating commissioned murals or curating urban art festivals, he plays a critical role in shaping graffiti's transition from outsider expression to an accepted, fine art form.

His passion for exploration has taken him across the globe, living and working in places like Saint Martin, Tahiti, Montreal, and Amsterdam. During his time in Amsterdam, PWOZ explored tattoo artistry, working with the legendary HENK SCHIFFMACHER. This experience further broadened his artistic horizons and deepened his appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

Now based in Las Vegas, PWOZ continues his artistic journey, ever committed to redefining fine art graffiti. His career is marked by constant reinvention, endless learning, and a drive to challenge the conventional boundaries of art. His work remains a powerful testament to graffiti’s potential to transcend its origins and become a profound, respected art form.