Giorgi Gamezardashvili

Year of birth: 1985.
Where do you live: Tbilisi, Georgia.
Your education: Graphic artist. Graduated from Tbilisi State Art Academy.
Describe your art in three words: Innovation, Freedom, Humor.
Your discipline: Chaos everywhere.
Website | Instagram

Could you tell us about your journey as an artist and what inspired you to pursue art as a career?

My journey as an artist began with a deep fascination for visual storytelling. Growing up in Tbilisi, Georgia, I was constantly inspired by the unique blend of historic architecture, urban landscapes, and the vibrant cultural energy of the city. These elements shaped my artistic sensibility and sparked a desire to interpret the world through art.

From a young age, I found myself drawn to creative expression as a way to connect with my surroundings. I began experimenting with various mediums, starting with sketches and paintings on the school walls (of course, the director of the school told me to tear down all the walls I had painted), and gradually expanding into more experimental forms of visual art. Over time, I discovered a profound passion for exploring the intersection between art and urban life, which became a defining theme in my work.

My decision to pursue art as a career was driven by an unrelenting desire to translate my vision into something that could engage and inspire others. Art, for me, is not just about aesthetic creation; it is a way to challenge perceptions, evoke emotions, and foster meaningful connections. It is a tool for storytelling that allows me to communicate complex ideas and emotions without the constraints of language.

As I continue to grow as an artist, I remain committed to pushing boundaries and exploring new ways to express my vision. Each project I undertake is an opportunity to delve deeper into the themes that resonate with me and to contribute to the ever-evolving conversation around art and its role in society.

Giorgi Gamezardashvili | Phirosmani Simpson

How do you typically approach creating your artwork, and how do humor and social commentary influence your style?

My creative process begins with observation and reflection. I take inspiration from the everyday world—its textures, contradictions, and unexpected juxtapositions. Whether it’s a bustling urban street or a quiet, overlooked detail in a building’s structure, I strive to uncover stories within the environment. My goal is to translate these stories into visual narratives that challenge the viewer’s perspective.

Humor plays a significant role in my work, acting as a bridge between the artwork and the audience. It allows me to address complex or difficult topics in an approachable and engaging manner. Through irony, satire, or playful imagery, I invite viewers to see the world through a different lens, encouraging them to reflect on their surroundings with curiosity and openness.

Social commentary is another integral component of my art. I view art as a platform for dialogue, a way to engage with societal issues and provoke thought. By incorporating themes of cultural identity, urban transformation, or environmental concerns, I aim to create pieces that resonate on both a personal and collective level. The combination of humor and social critique allows my work to be both accessible and thought-provoking, striking a balance between entertainment and introspection.

Ultimately, my approach is about creating connections—between the artwork and its audience, between humor and critique, and between the individual and the broader social context. Each piece I create is a reflection of my perspective on the world and an invitation for others to share in that exploration.

How has living and working in Tbilisi shaped your artistic vision and themes?

Living and working in Tbilisi has profoundly influenced my artistic vision and the themes I explore in my work. Tbilisi is a city of contrasts—where ancient history meets rapid modernization, and where diverse cultural influences converge to create a dynamic urban landscape. This unique environment has become both a source of inspiration and a canvas for my creativity.

The city’s architecture, with its blend of traditional wooden balconies and Soviet-era concrete structures, tells stories of resilience and transformation. Tbilisi’s vibrant street culture and artistic community have also played a significant role in shaping my practice. My friends and I bring the city alive with graffiti, street performances, and public art that reflect the voices of its people. This raw and unfiltered expression has inspired me to incorporate elements of urban art into my own work, blurring the boundaries between fine art and street culture.

Additionally, Tbilisi’s cultural heritage and the stories of its people have enriched my perspective as an artist. The city’s rich history, coupled with its contemporary challenges, provides endless material for exploration. Whether addressing social issues, celebrating local traditions, or simply capturing the spirit of the city, my work is deeply rooted in the context of Tbilisi.

Ultimately, Tbilisi is more than just the backdrop to my artistic journey—it is an active participant in it. The city’s energy, contradictions, and resilience continually inspire me to push the boundaries of my creativity and to tell stories that resonate on both a local and universal level.

Giorgi Gamezardashvili | BRUTALeatY

You are known for your graffiti and public artworks. What do you think makes urban art unique compared to gallery art?

Urban art stands apart from gallery art in its accessibility, context, and dynamic relationship with the public. One of the defining features of urban art is its ability to exist within the fabric of daily life. It’s art for everyone, unconstrained by the formal boundaries of museums or galleries. Urban art thrives in the open—on walls, streets, and public spaces—inviting spontaneous interaction from people of all walks of life.

The context in which urban art is created and displayed is another key factor that makes it unique. Unlike gallery art, which is often viewed in controlled, curated environments, urban art is deeply rooted in its surroundings. It responds to the architecture, culture, and social dynamics of the space it inhabits. This connection to its environment gives urban art a sense of immediacy and relevance that is hard to replicate in a traditional gallery setting.

Urban art also carries an element of risk and impermanence that sets it apart. Public spaces are unpredictable—a mural might be painted over, weathered by time, or altered by other artists. This ephemeral nature lends urban art a raw, unfiltered quality that captures the essence of its time and place.

Another unique aspect is the dialogue that urban art creates. It’s not confined to the walls of an institution; it’s out there, sparking conversations, challenging norms, and engaging with the public directly. Graffiti and street art, in particular, often carry bold social or political messages, using humor, irony, or provocation to reach audiences in ways that traditional gallery art might not.

While both urban and gallery art have their own merits, urban art’s ability to break barriers, connect with diverse audiences, and transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences makes it a powerful and unique form of expression.

Your piece “Fisherman” is a tribute to Niko Pirosmani. How has his work influenced you, and what was your process for creating this tribute?

Niko Pirosmani’s work has been a profound source of inspiration for me, not only as an artist but as someone deeply connected to the Georgian cultural landscape. His ability to capture the essence of everyday life with simplicity and emotional depth resonates with my own artistic philosophy. Pirosmani’s paintings, often depicting scenes of ordinary people, animals, and Georgian traditions, evoke a sense of timelessness and authenticity that I strive to emulate in my work.

When creating “Fisherman,” I aimed to pay homage to Pirosmani’s unique vision while infusing the piece with my own contemporary perspective. What makes “Fisherman” particularly distinctive is its Simpsonized style, a deliberate choice to reinterpret Pirosmani’s art through a modern, pop-cultural lens. This stylistic approach allowed me to merge the simplicity and emotional depth of Pirosmani’s work with a playful, contemporary aesthetic that is uniquely my own. By incorporating this style, I sought to emphasize the universality of Pirosmani’s themes and their ability to transcend time and artistic mediums.

Additionally, my connection to Pirosmani extends beyond individual works. I have created and published a unique book about Pirosmani, which reimagines his art and life in the form of a comic. This book has been translated into Japanese and is currently available on Japanese Amazon as well as in bookstores throughout Georgia. This project reflects my dedication to sharing Pirosmani’s legacy with a global audience in innovative and accessible ways.

The theme of “Fisherman” itself draws inspiration from Pirosmani’s focus on humble, hardworking individuals. For me, the fisherman symbolizes perseverance, patience, and a deep connection to nature—qualities that echo throughout Pirosmani’s body of work. In the piece, I incorporated visual motifs that reference Georgian cultural heritage, subtly nodding to the artist’s influence while making the work my own.

Creating this tribute was both a challenge and a joy. It required balancing reverence for Pirosmani’s legacy with my desire to reinterpret his themes through a contemporary lens. In the end, “Fisherman” is not just a tribute to Pirosmani but a celebration of the enduring power of art to connect generations and inspire new stories.

Giorgi Gamezardashvili | Family

As a mentor and teacher, what advice would you give to young artists starting their careers?

As a mentor and teacher, my advice to young artists is to embrace both patience and persistence. The journey of an artist is rarely linear, and success often comes to those who are willing to experiment, fail, and grow. Here are some key principles I encourage aspiring artists to keep in mind:

1. Find Your Voice: Dedicate time to discovering what makes your perspective unique. Experiment with different mediums, styles, and techniques until you find the language that best expresses your ideas and emotions.  

2. Stay Curious: Art is a continuous learning process. Engage with other art forms, cultures, and disciplines to expand your horizons and keep your creativity alive.  

3. Build Connections: The art world thrives on collaboration and relationships. Engage with fellow artists, participate in exhibitions, and don’t hesitate to seek advice or mentorship from those whose work inspires you.  

4. Embrace Feedback: Constructive criticism is invaluable for growth. Be open to feedback but remain true to your vision.  

5. Balance Passion with Practicality: While creativity is at the core of art, understanding the business side of the industry—marketing, networking, and financial planning—is equally important.  

6. Resilience is Key: Challenges and rejections are part of every artist’s journey. Use them as stepping stones to refine your work and deepen your resolve.

Most importantly, create art because you love it and because it fulfills you. Genuine passion and commitment will always resonate with audiences, regardless of trends or market demands. Keep moving forward, one brushstroke, sketch, or idea at a time.

Your work often includes social and cultural commentary. What specific themes or issues do you find most important to address through your art?

My art often serves as a mirror to society, reflecting on themes that are deeply rooted in the complexities of human life, culture, and the shared experiences that define us. Some of the key themes I explore include:

1. Social Inequality: Through my work, I aim to shed light on the disparities that exist within society—whether economic, racial, or gender-related. By highlighting these issues, I hope to spark dialogue and inspire change.  

2. Urban Life and Identity: Growing up and working in Tbilisi, I am deeply inspired by the ever-changing urban landscape. My graffiti and public art often examine the relationship between people and their environments, showcasing the beauty and chaos of city life.  

3. Tradition vs. Modernity: Georgia’s rich cultural heritage and its juxtaposition with modern influences are a constant source of inspiration. I explore how these forces collide, coexist, and evolve, often blending traditional motifs with contemporary forms.  

4. Environmental Awareness: I’m increasingly drawn to themes of environmental responsibility, particularly the impact of urbanization and industrialization on natural ecosystems. Through art, I aim to encourage a sense of stewardship for the planet.  

5. Freedom of Expression: At its core, my work advocates for the power of individual voices. Whether through humor, satire, or stark commentary, I aim to remind viewers of the importance of personal and collective expression in the face of societal constraints.

Art has the unique ability to provoke thought and evoke emotion, making it a powerful medium for addressing these themes. My goal is to connect with people on a personal level, inviting them to see the world—and perhaps themselves—through a slightly different lens.

Giorgi Gamezardashvili | Skukum is lost

Can you tell us about your directions and about your current projects?

My artistic practice is diverse and multi-dimensional, encompassing various creative directions that allow me to explore different facets of visual storytelling and design. My primary focuses include:

1. Murals: Large-scale mural art is a key part of my work, allowing me to transform urban spaces and engage directly with communities.  

2. Character Creation: I specialize in creating unique characters that bring narratives to life, whether in illustrations, comics, or caricatures.  

3. Design and Art Conception: Developing conceptual designs and visual frameworks is central to my artistic vision, whether for branding, projects, or exhibitions.  

4. Caricature and Illustration: I enjoy capturing the essence of people and stories through caricatures and illustrations, often blending humor and social commentary.  

5. Comics and Doodles: I love the storytelling potential of comics and doodles, using them to create accessible, impactful visual narratives.  

6. Poster Design: Posters serve as a dynamic medium for me to communicate bold ideas, often with a focus on activism, culture, or humor.  

7. Simpsonizing Individuals: One of my signature styles is Simpsonizing people, blending pop culture with personalized art.  

8. Publishing: Publishing is one of my most cherished directions. I have my own publishing house where I create and produce unique books.

Current Projects

Pirosmani Biography Comic Book: I’ve created and published a comic book biography of the iconic Georgian artist Niko Pirosmani. This book has been translated into Japanese and is currently available on Japanese Amazon, as well as in bookstores throughout Georgia.  

Graffiti Book: I’m working on a groundbreaking graffiti book featuring black-and-white photos of urban spaces, such as buildings, cars, and buses. The book invites readers to create their own graffiti on these templates, encouraging creative expression.  

Sticker Books: Various sticker packaging projects.  

Street Art Sakartvelo: I’m currently organizing a street art Sakartvelo event that will bring together talented artists to transform urban spaces, celebrate creativity, and engage the local community.

Through these directions and projects, I aim to continue innovating and pushing the boundaries of my creative practice while fostering meaningful connections through art and publishing.