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Part 2: Retna on Selling Early Paintings for $200 to Doing Louis Vuitton Collabs
Part 1: Retna on Learning to Paint, How He Got His Name, Transitioning from Graffiti to Fine Art
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Street artist Retna credits a pivotal 2013 exhibit curated by Aaron Rose and Joseph, alongside key figures like Marcia Goldberg and Jeffrey Deitch, for launching his mainstream success. Originally creating leather and canvas pieces quietly, Retna got a last-minute call to fill a gallery spot thanks to connections through Amber, a longtime supporter. Goldberg challenged him to refine his style, stripping color and decoration to embrace raw, bold calligraphy inspired by Keith Haring.
Retna also innovated by collaborating on unique photo shoots, moving beyond appropriated images to original works with artists Richard Guajardo and Corey Moreira. A memorable encounter with hairstylist Chris McMillan, then washing cars, also shaped his artistic path. Deitch’s entrance into the LA art scene and visit to Retna’s studio further propelled his career, cementing opportunities that transitioned him from underground artist to celebrated figure at MOCA and beyond.
