SMATES is a Belgian street artist who studied graphic design at Sint-Lukas Brussels and graduated as a graphic designer. He’s always been a fan of realistic drawings and paintings so after graduating he followed painting classes for about 2 years. At the age of 17-18 Smates started with graffiti and has painted until he was about 22. He didn’t stop painting for a particular reason, but started again in July 2009. A couple of years ago he started part-time as a graffiti artist and since September 2013 he is working full-time on the streets
Inspirations for his works he finds in the surroundings where the wall is located or the shape of the wall. He is trying to create something that fits the wall or tries to play with depth, 3D illusions, … “When it comes to talent and practice you always have to work hard and look at other people who are a lot better technically and conceptually: Even if you are talented there are always people more talented than you. “ Smates has left his mark in the UK, Malta and of course Belgium, but hopes to expand his reach with bigger walls and more countries!