Marc Andre: A Creative Force Redefining Boundaries
(Photography by: Reuters/Andrew Kelly) Marc Andre @ Yeezy Season 3 Collection
Born in France, Marc spent most of his formative years in Paris exploring fine art and culture before moving to the U.S. at the age of 14. Marc Andre is a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans hip-hop and visual art. His creations blend multicultural roots with a contemporary, neo-expressionist style. Now based in New York, Andre produces art that challenges norms and celebrates individuality, drawing from African heritage, childhood imagination, and the bold energy of hip-hop culture. Initially making his mark in underground hip-hop, he transitioned to visual art in 2021.
Roots and Influences
Andre’s artistic foundation was shaped by his upbringing. Traveling with his mother, he encountered a wide range of Pan-African art in museums and exhibitions. These early influences are evident in his work, which incorporates tribal masks, vibrant colors, and dynamic mark-making. His style pays homage to his roots in Benin and Equatorial Guinea while offering a fresh perspective for modern audiences.
"My background continues to inspire everything I do," Andre says. "Knowing where I come from helps me grow creatively and personally."
Untitled, 2022 (Green Face)
Untitled, 2022 (Blue One)
Breaking Boundaries
Marc Andre's work challenges traditional art spaces by advocating for inclusivity and accessibility. His exhibitions, including those with provocative titles, critique the exclusivity of the art world. His first solo show, African Inferno, debuted at Brooklyn’s DoorDoor Gallery and was later featured at a contemporary art fair in the Hamptons.
Through bold compositions using acrylic and oil sticks, pieces like Together and Fashion Week (2022) blend abstract and figurative elements. His approach, which he describes as "organized chaos," reflects the energy of tribal rituals while incorporating humor, theatricality, and the rhythm of urban life.
Life Between Cultures
After moving to the U.S. in 2015, Andre describes himself as a "global citizen." His French upbringing, African lineage, and New York experiences blend seamlessly into his art, addressing universal themes of identity, creativity, and resilience.
Andre finds inspiration in his surroundings. He cites La Cabra café in New York’s East Village as one of his favorite spots, offering a unique vantage point to observe the city’s dynamic energy.
(Photography By: Bleu Pablo)
Untitled (Head), 2022
Capturing the Essence of Play
Andre’s work continues to channel creativity of childhood. "Kids create with purity and freedom," he explains. His art invites viewers to embrace spontaneity and joy, encouraging a return to an unfiltered sense of expression.
Looking Ahead
As his artistic journey progresses, Andre continues to bridge disciplines, combining visual art, music, and performance to challenge narratives. His work uplifts, aiming to inspire meaningful Impact in our community.
Andre’s art has been featured in notable collections, including the Tim Okamura, Julia Lang, and Westside Gunn collections. He has also modeled for Yeezy Season 3. Whether working with paint or digital media, Marc Andre’s work bridges past and present, tradition and innovation.