Francisco de Pájaro – Art Is Trash Returns to Düsseldorf with New Works and Urban Interventions
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Francisco de Pájaro, internationally known under his alias “Art Is Trash”, is returning to Düsseldorf following last year’s acclaimed appearance—this time with fresh urban interventions and a new solo exhibition. Originally from Barcelona, the Spanish artist has become a defining figure in the global urban art scene. His career is shaped by stark contrasts: while his paintings are shown and sold in prestigious galleries in New York, London, and Barcelona, by night he transforms city streets with spontaneous artworks made from discarded materials and trash.
The power of Art Is Trash lies in this contrast. On one hand, his finely composed canvases express deep emotional layers and strong visual energy. On the other, his improvised street pieces confront the public with wit, irony, and social critique. What connects both formats is his bold visual language—marked by cartoon-like elements and the provocative slogan “ART IS TRASH”. The phrase itself is a deliberate contradiction, especially considering his international success, and invites reflection on what society values as “art.”
In Düsseldorf, de Pájaro has already left his mark: along the Rhine River, at Fortuna Büdchen, in front of the K21 Art Museum, as well as in Meerbusch, on the famous shopping street Kö, and even in the red-light district. His street interventions sparked a wide range of reactions—curious passersby, amused police officers, and thrilled art lovers all encountered his nocturnal creations. Reflecting on the experience, the artist playfully remarked:
“I am very happy, the people in Düsseldorf are very interested in Art and have a lot of Humor, even the Police has Humor.”
His upcoming exhibition in May 2025 at the gallery Grafik Bild Kunst, located at Schwanenmarkt 6, promises to be a highlight for fans of contemporary and urban art. Visitors will experience a new series of works showcasing his distinctive blend of color, expressive force, and unconventional aesthetics. The event also includes a rare chance to meet the artist in person during a live artist talk and performance.
Francisco de Pájaro’s own biography reads like a work of urban art itself. He has faced numerous setbacks—two failed attempts to establish himself in London, unpaid fees from a Converse ad project, and artwork left uncompensated by a New York gallerist. But these obstacles have only deepened his artistic resolve. His double life—as celebrated gallery artist and rebellious street performer—evokes the tension of literary figures like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: two sides of the same creative coin.
Exhibition Dates and Events
VIP Opening Night
🗓 Friday, May 9, 2025 – 7:00 PM
🎤 Artist Talk & Live Performance at approx. 8:30 PM
Admission by invitation only
Public Opening
🗓 Saturday, May 10, 2025 – 7:00 PM
🎤 Artist Talk & Live Performance at approx. 8:30 PM
Admission by registration via Eventbrite.de
📍 Location:
Grafik Bild Kunst
Schwanenmarkt 6
40213 Düsseldorf, Germany
