See Yourself by SEL in Los Angeles

My Punk Rock Zen: Harmony in Chaos series is about my personal journey through life to find a perspective that has brought me peace. Growing up I was fascinated by street culture; graffiti, music and its unique fashion, each of which has impacted and inspired my life in many ways. I’ve always seen my surrounding as symbols and my experiences as a road map to help me find my way through this journey. The hoodie is an iconic staple of the streets that has found it’s way into hi-end couture and even court rooms! I have encountered “hooded people” in the depth of the city nights who were like urban monks, prophets or shamans; I found them to be mysterious, sometimes mystical, maybe crazy but always “Down”. LOL The hooded figures in my work represent an introvert energy, keeping to themselves within the hoodie, quietly observing, taking everything in and processing the environment. The birds in different cultures are symbols of power and freedom, for my work I connect them also to our spirit, our soul. In this piece “See Yourself” the person has pulled the hood off awaking as he sees himself for the first time. The falcon is flying up and free spreading his wings wide taking off to find more adventures.