Diego Tirigall

Smoke Break Street Art Basquiat Style

2022

Diego Tirigall, born in Argentina in 1976 and now residing in Spain, grew up in an environment overshadowed by a hoarding disorder. Immersed in a family of antique dealers and art restorers, his childhood home more closely resembled an overcrowded warehouse brimming with antiquities and works of art awaiting restoration, far from an ideal space for conventional childhood. This setting, saturated with aged and decaying relics, profoundly shaped his youth, sparking within him a rebellious spirit and a deep yearning for liberation. This thirst for liberation found its conduit in art, though not the kind prevalent in his familial surroundings. Tirigall first veered towards digital art, seemingly an effort to dissociate from the haunting memories of his childhood. His artistic rebellion ultimately found resonance in the realms of street art and expressionism—styles celebrated for their spontaneity, dynamism, and refusal to conform to traditional norms. Tirigall's oeuvre offers a critical exploration of contemporary themes, including artificial intelligence, screen addiction, and decentralization. His artistry features recurring elements like vintage robots, skulls, logos, and words, a subtle nod to the profound influence of Basquiat and Warhol on his craft. An autodidact, Tirigall learned through trial and error, sidestepping formal instruction. His successful tenure as a graphic designer and art director equipped him with a unique, deliberately casual approach to handling layers, spaces, forms, and colors—an artful demonstration of his comprehension of the rules he consciously breaks. His works have earned global recognition, with exhibitions spanning from Seoul to Beverly Hills. He has also been featured on the cover of SaatchiArt's "New Masters" catalog. Beyond his creative pursuits, Tirigall invests time helping fellow artists enhance their profiles and promotional strategies. Diego Tirigall's journey, from a childhood circumscribed by restrictions to an artistic career abounding in creativity and acclaim, stands as a compelling testament to rebellion as a catalyst for creativity.