Sobe e Desce by Onesto (Alex Hornest)

Sobe e Desce (up and down) was made by Onesto, one of the artistic personas of Alex Hornest. His design breathed new life into the architecture originally conceived by Mecanoo. The wall division worked in his favor, being a determining element in the artwork’s conception. There are two characters depicted in this mural. One character ascends, while the other descends, creating some movement and rhythm. This symbolizes the artist’s inspiration drawn from the Krusplein, a gateway to the commercial West-Kruiskade, known for its vivid and busy atmosphere.

Onesto’s artistic approach is rooted in the connection between space and people. By immersing himself in the surroundings, he often produces art that encapsulates the essence of the location. Alex created this mural without a previous sketch, showing his endless talent and how the place influences his art. The artwork displays a social analysis, a recurring theme in Onesto’s work. By exploring the concept of individuals positioned at different levels within society, he invites viewers to contemplate political and social issues, but not in a literal way. The artist’s iconic characters, known as “Onesto,” feature round forms, slender arms and legs, and oversized hands. This style emerged from the materials and techniques he employs. With a simple method, he predominantly paints warm tones punctuated by strategic splashes of contrasting blue. This juxtaposition adds depth and allure, enhancing the visual impact of this artwork.

About the artist:

Alex Hornest is an artist from São Paulo, Brazil, a city recognized for its intense graffiti scene. With a distinct style that catches the eye on any street, Alex’s career is proof of rewarded effort. With over 70 different artistic names, he embraces a diverse range of creative expressions, transcending traditional street art and exhibition spaces. Coming from a family with a passion for art fueled his desire to create. Despite initially pursuing a degree in business management, he never stopped producing art. Later, that stimulated him to pursue a formal art education. Inspired by the movie “Beat Street”, graffiti resonated with Alex, combining his talent for drawing with urban expression. Although his appreciation for graffiti emerged in the 80s, it wasn’t until the 90s that he began leaving his mark on the streets.

In the midst of his studies and work commitments, Alex has devoted a significant portion of his time to creating art in many ways. He expanded beyond the streets to showcase his work in galleries and museums. With over three decades of experience in the art world, he is one of the most experienced and diverse artists in our collection. Characterized by his rounded figures and cohesive color palette, his pieces skillfully shed light on social issues. Moreover, Alex actively seeks to connect his art with diverse social projects, making art accessible to those with limited means and providing them with enriching experiences. To know even more about him, check the full interview here.