Archie Hayes 
The French artist, Julien Malland, otherwise known as Seth Globepainter, is a true magician of storytelling through art. He’s renowned for his ability to offer insightful observations about society in a way that is framed by the purity and wonder often associated with childhood. For much of his artistic journey, Seth has been translating the joy, optimism, and marvel of youth onto canvases across the world.
Seth’s captivating and imaginative characters can be found on walls of various cities ranging from Miami to Shanghai. What’s particularly fascinating is his choice of locations. These enchanting characters often come to life on walls in areas that have seen their fair share of hardships, like Syrian refugee camps and the conflict-ridden streets of the Donbas region in Ukraine. In these places, his work serves as a ray of hope, infusing color, joy, and wonder in otherwise grim surroundings.
In November, Seth Globepainter made his foray into the world of literature with the publication of his first monograph, aptly named “Seth, On Walls.” This comprehensive volume spans a decade of his work, documenting his resilient and youthful subjects, thus serving as a testament to his unique artistic journey.
“Seth, On Walls” introduces readers to his subjects – predominantly faceless figures surrounded by a swirl of color and playful optical illusions. These characters, often engaged in introspective poses, turn away from the viewer, suggesting an element of introversion and contemplation. The actions depicted are those of simple childhood joys – resting, playing with a friend, or gazing towards an uncertain, yet exciting future.
Interestingly, many of Seth’s murals are set against the backdrop of gray, urban landscapes but contain small, vibrant ‘portals’ that appear like windows into another, brighter world. These portals are an essential part of his narrative, serving as a symbolic escape from the grim realities of their surroundings.
Much like the art that it documents, the book “Seth, On Walls” adopts a hopeful tone. It presents a subtle yet profound view of the world, where imagination is the panacea for all problems, where optimism can overcome the most significant adversities.
The release date for “Seth, On Walls” in the U.S. is set for September. Readers who wish to delve into the magical world of Seth Globepainter can pre-order their copies now. To stay up-to-date with Seth’s latest work and projects, one can follow his Instagram.
Please note that Seth Globepainter’s art is not just an amalgamation of beautiful, vibrant colors and characters; it is a compelling commentary on society, a bridge that links childhood innocence with harsh realities. His work provides a refreshing and hopeful lens to view the world, reminding us of the power of imagination and optimism, even amidst adversity.
