The short video A Studio Visit with Addam Yekutieli is available to watch at the top of the page.
For nearly two decades, artist Addam Yekutieli, known in the art world as Know Hope, has been intriguing audiences with his unique and evocative street art. Yekutieli’s iconic figure, which he has been painting on the streets since the beginning of his career, serves as a powerful symbol of fragility and empathy, transcending gender and race to establish a potent connection with people. His work courageously tackles social issues such as injustice, violence, and abandonment, inviting us to empathize deeply with the experiences of others. The direct interaction with the street is the animating force behind his art, sparking fresh interpretations and facilitating discussions about social issues.
Yekutieli’s projects are not confined to the urban canvas of the street; his works have also found a home in international exhibition spaces. In the video interview at the top of the page, Yekutieli discusses his creative process and his community-based projects in public spaces, such as Taking Sides and Truth and Method. Taking Sides explores the complex dynamics of how we choose sides and adopt overarching ideologies—sometimes consciously, often unconsciously. By drawing lines in high-traffic public spaces, the installation challenges passersby to pick a side, stimulating dialogue about the concept of territoriality and the implication of taking a stance.
In Truth and Method, Yekutieli probes authentic human situations, providing a deeper understanding of his introspective practice. The exhibition presents site-specific street pieces paired with text-based messages that create open-ended narratives enhanced by their contexts. The same texts are then tattooed onto volunteer participants, transforming the work from a transient outdoor piece to a more enduring, intimate expression. In animating his message in such a powerful manner, Yekutieli’s art continues to inspire us and challenge our perceptions of the world.
Addam Yekutieli’s art serves as a powerful commentary on the human condition, highlighting our shared vulnerability and promoting empathy and connection. His innovative approach to street art, in combination with his thought-provoking themes, makes him a must-watch artist for anyone who appreciates art with profound societal commentary.
