Tony Sjoman

Tony Sjoman: The Geometry of Memory

Tony Sjoman, also known as Rubin415, is a Swedish graffiti artist born in Gothenburg (1975) to Finnish parents. His artistic journey began amidst the stark concrete landscapes of his childhood, profoundly shaped by seminal films like *Beat Street* and *Style Wars*, which ignited his passion for lettering and instilled a belief in trusting intuition—a lesson learned from witnessing the unapologetic pride of graffiti pioneers. This formative experience propelled him toward New York City in 1998, where he embraced a more open approach to creativity and rediscovered the joy inherent in artistic expression. Early Influences: Sjoman’s fascination with graffiti stemmed from witnessing *Beat Street* on television at age nine, sparking an immediate connection to the rebellious spirit of street art and its roots in hip-hop culture. The film's dynamic visuals and energetic soundtrack instilled within him a conviction that true artistry resided in embracing spontaneity—a principle championed by graffiti legends who dared to defy convention. Formal Training & Exploration: After a hiatus from painting lasting approximately eight years, Sjoman returned to his craft with renewed vigor, revisiting foundational techniques honed during his youth and prioritizing experimentation. He sought inspiration not only in the visual language of street art but also in the architectural forms of urban environments—a deliberate effort to synthesize disparate influences into a cohesive artistic vision. The Move to New York City: Recognizing the vibrancy of artistic communities in NYC, Sjoman relocated permanently in 1998, immersing himself in an environment brimming with creative energy and intellectual discourse. This pivotal decision allowed him to reconnect with his roots while simultaneously broadening his horizons—a transformative experience that fueled his artistic evolution and solidified his commitment to pushing boundaries. Graffiti Roots & Artistic Evolution: Sjoman’s initial foray into art involved repurposing stolen spray markers—a playful rebellion against the uniformity of his Gothenburg surroundings—reflecting the influence of graffiti legends like Nic 707 (R.I.P.). He honed his skills through jams in the Bronx, absorbing wisdom from seasoned artists who championed spontaneity and conviction. This dedication to raw expression fueled his artistic development, transitioning him from simple lettering to a sophisticated visual language characterized by layered forms and meticulous attention to detail—a stylistic hallmark that distinguishes his work globally. Early Technique: Sjoman began experimenting with spray cans and markers alongside fellow graffiti artists in the Bronx, absorbing invaluable lessons about improvisation and authenticity. He meticulously studied the techniques of older masters who had established themselves as icons within the Graffuturism movement—drawing inspiration from their unwavering commitment to stylistic innovation and visual storytelling. His work embodies a synthesis of geometric precision and meditative contemplation—a testament to his enduring influence on contemporary street art. Notable Achievements & Recognition: Sjoman’s murals can be seen throughout the United States and Europe, from iconic New York City landmarks to corporate headquarters, hospitality spaces, and cultural institutions—demonstrating his ability to adapt his artistic vision to diverse contexts. His collaborative projects with brands such as Nike, Lululemon, and American Express have garnered critical acclaim and solidified his reputation as a visionary artist who engages with the broader cultural landscape. He was honored in 2016 with the release of his debut monograph, *Rubin: New York / Scandinavia*, documenting the first decade of his career—a poignant reflection on artistic exploration and personal transformation. Current Biography: Tony Sjoman continues to expand his practice through international murals, gallery exhibitions, and a growing body of studio work rooted in form, rhythm, and architectural memory. His unwavering dedication to pushing creative boundaries ensures that his legacy as a pioneer of Graffuturism—a movement blending geometric abstraction with meditative contemplation—will endure for generations to come.