JB Rock: Crafting Alphabets, Communicating Faces

Title: Wall of Fame – Particular

Creator: JB Rock

Nationality: Italian

Gender: Male

Birthplace: Rome, Italy

Date: 2010

Location Created: Via dei Magazzini Generali, Ostiense District


Alphabetical Portraits: The Essence of JB Rock’s Wall of Fame

In the heart of Rome’s Ostiense district, artist JB Rock embarked on a unique venture in 2010, creating what can only be described as a “Wall of Fame – Particular.” This outdoor project, known for its captivating blend of alphabet and faces, stands as a testament to the communicative power of art and the profound impact of those closest to the artist.

The Alphabet Unveiled: A Linguistic Canvas

JB Rock’s masterpiece comprises twenty-six faces, each meticulously representing a letter of the alphabet. The artist delves into the core of written communication, using the alphabet as a linguistic canvas. Amongst the famous faces adorning the wall, including Yuri Gagarin, Jimi Hendrix, Frida Kahlo, and Sergio Leone, JB Rock interposed six individuals incredibly close to him—his family. This deliberate inclusion brings a personal touch to the grand tapestry, elevating the mural beyond a mere display of letters.

Faces Beyond Fame: A Reflection on Communicative Power

JB Rock’s artistic endeavor extends beyond the mere portrayal of famous faces. It becomes a reflection on the communicative power inherent in a face, exploring its iconic strength and evocative value. The faces, whether of renowned personalities or cherished family members, serve as moments of contemplation on the emotional charges a visage can carry.

The Alphabet as Myth: Communicating through Hollywoodian Language

Drawing inspiration from Roland Barthes’ “Mythologies,” JB Rock’s work plays with the dual meaning conveyed by the alphabet and myth itself. The twenty-six portraits communicate through a Hollywoodian language, akin to the famed Los Angeles Walk of Fame. In essence, JB Rock has created a Wall of Fame, a testament to the power of communication in contemporary society.

JB Rock’s Journey: From Writing to Artistic Evolution

Born in Rome in 1979, JB Rock’s artistic journey began in the early ’90s on the writing scene. Balancing his artistic studies with graffiti art, he developed a style oscillating between the figurative and post-pop, with nods to the graphic and pictorial traditions of 20th-century Europe. His evolution as an artist has been showcased in various exhibitions since 2003, with his recent works exploring the ambivalence between subject recognition and complete disintegration.

Stancil Painting Master: Crafting Urban Art with Precision

JB Rock’s mastery extends to stenciled painting, where his precision transforms outdoor spaces into canvases that communicate complex emotions. His work “Wall of Fame – Particular” exemplifies his ability to convey intricate narratives through the marriage of alphabets, faces, and urban landscapes.

Exploring JB Rock’s Artistry: A Dive into His Outdoor Creations

Explore JB Rock’s Art


Photographer: Gloria Viggiani

Leave a Reply