“Spring marks longer days, nature in full bloom, and the wrapping up of my European tour. With exciting things in the works, more explorations, new studios in Switzerland and Mexico, and plenty of projects lined up, I would like to take this time to share some of this season’s journey. Sit back, relax, and enjoy these moments!” – Mantra

Look who just happened to fly by – It’s French street artist and naturalist Mantra with a diary of what projects he has been involved in this spring. Now that we are officially in summer for one day, we thought you would like to see the recap of this prolific and quick painting scientist. Yes, Mantra’s artworks transcend aesthetics by delving into the realm of scientific exploration. He meticulously incorporates biology, ecology, and zoology elements into his pieces, demonstrating a profound understanding of the natural world.

Mantra’s attention to scientific detail is probably unparalleled in today’s street art/mural scene, as he painstakingly replicates the textures, patterns, and colors of various organisms, mainly insects and marine life. His artworks often feature magnified views of creatures in realistic fashion, revealing the intricate beauty hidden within their microscopic worlds. And we’re pleased to bring to BSA readers Mantra’s personal musings about his experiences this spring.

~ by Mantra

I was very honored to return for the fourth edition of the Oskarshamn Street Art Festival. This freehand mural, entitled The Oskarhamn Collection, illustrates butterflies like the Clouded Yellow (Colias Croceus) or the Large Blue (Phengaris Arion), which are only found in this part of the country on the southeast side of the Baltic Sea. This collection brings harmony that balances with the natural architecture of this building and strengthens the ambiance with a soft color palette.”

In the midst of spring, during my time in Fimon, Italy, I had the incredible opportunity to witness the breathtaking countryside of Arcugnano in full bloom. I was able to closely observe most of the specimens I selected for my project right in front of the wall. This mural serves as a captivating reflection of the Veneto region’s rich and diverse ecosystem, inviting us to appreciate the intricate details of each unique species on a grand scale.

Returning to Denmark was another great experience, this time to visit Braedstrup alongside Kunstbureauet Kolossal. In this latest piece, entitled A Poplar Admiral Journey,  I immersed myself in the natural habitat of butterflies within this region. By surrounding them with the lush flora that constitutes their world, I aimed to appreciate their ecosystem and imagine what life could be like in their captivating microcosm. I hope that this mural brings harmony to the town and initiates curiosity about these fascinating insects, inspiring a deeper respect for the natural world around us.

This mural, in my hometown of Metz, France, is composed of photographs I took of flowers, insects, and other aspects of nature that inspired me while visiting the Metz botanic garden and the lush countryside. The woman in this mural, Leeloo Clasen, was born and raised in Metz and is a ballet dancer at the conservatory. Immersed in a tranquil moment of reading, Leelo is surrounded by plants and butterflies, a tribute to the green city where I grew up.

To learn more about Mantra, his trips, projects, and his thoughts click HERE and follow him on https://www.instagram.com/mantrarea/