'Self-Portrait 1' by Martin Whatson, 2023
Very Rare, original hand-drawn/signed sketch on paper.
11 x 8.5 Inches
28 x 21.6 Centimeters
14 x 11 x 0.8 Inches (framed)
Hand-drawn self-portrait in blue Sharpie marker on gloss photo paper.
Original artwork (#1/1)
Hand-signed by the artist center-right.
Acquired in-person while creating his 'Lighthouse' street art mural.
Hester St. & Bowery in NYC, May 2023.
*Note: Piece includes photo-proof print-outs.
*Note: Matted and framed with UV-protective plexiglass in royal blue MDF molding.
ABOUT THE ART
Martin Whatson is a Norwegian contemporary artist internationally recognized for his distinctive fusion of stencil work and vibrant graffiti abstraction. Emerging from the urban art scene in the early 2000s, Whatson developed a signature style that juxtaposes highly controlled figurative imagery with explosive, colorful backgrounds—symbolizing the tension between structure and chaos. His work often explores themes of identity, isolation, and human emotion, earning him a global following through both large-scale public murals and highly sought-after studio works.
These hand-drawn self-portrait sketches offer a rare and intimate glimpse into the artist’s personal process, stripped down to its most essential form. Executed in simple, fluid line work, the drawings capture Whatson’s recognizable visual language in its rawest state—free from the layered color and stencil techniques that define his larger works. The minimal composition emphasizes expression and gesture, allowing the viewer to connect directly with the artist’s hand and presence in the moment.
Created in May 2023 during the painting of Whatson’s 'Lighthouse' mural at the iconic Hester Street & Bowery location in New York City, each piece carries a direct connection to a significant moment in the artist’s career. Drawn and signed in person, these works function not only as original artworks, but as documented artifacts of a live street art event. Accompanied by printed proof photographs capturing the artist in the act of creating and signing the pieces, they offer an added layer of authenticity and provenance—bridging the gap between ephemeral street practice and collectible fine art.
As one-of-a-kind, hand-drawn originals tied to a specific time, place, and public work, these sketches stand apart from traditional editions. They represent a rare opportunity to collect a personal, immediate expression from Martin Whatson—rooted directly in the environment and energy that continues to define his global impact.