MARTIN WHATSON 'WHAT-SON' (2023) Framed Self-Portrait Sketch on Canvas

MARTIN WHATSON 'WHAT-SON' (2023) Framed Self-Portrait Sketch on Canvas'WHAT SON' by Martin Whatson, 2023 Very Rare, original hand drawn signed sketch on canvas. 12 x 12 x 0. 65 Inches 30. 5 x 30. 5 x 1. 7 Centimeters 12. 5 x 12. 5 x 1. 5 Inches (framed) Hand drawn self portrait in blue Sharpie marker on wrapped cotton canvas. Titled by the artist in large block letters. Original artwork (#1 1) Hand signed by Whatson bottom right. Acquired in person while creating his 'Lighthouse' street art mural. Hester St. & Bowery in

'WHAT-SON' by Martin Whatson, 2023
Very Rare, original hand-drawn/signed sketch on canvas.
12 x 12 x 0.65 Inches
30.5 x 30.5 x 1.7 Centimeters
12.5 x 12.5 x 1.5 Inches (framed)
Hand-drawn self-portrait in blue Sharpie marker on wrapped cotton canvas.
Titled by the artist in large block letters.
Original artwork (#1/1)
Hand-signed by Whatson bottom right.
Acquired in-person while creating his 'Lighthouse' street art mural.
Hester St. & Bowery in NYC, May 2023.
*Note: Piece includes photo-proof print-outs.
*Note: Framed in black woodgrain MDF canvas molding.

ABOUT THE ART

Martin Whatson is a Norwegian contemporary artist internationally recognized for his distinctive fusion of stencil work and vibrant graffiti abstraction. Emerging from the urban art scene in the early 2000s, Whatson has developed a signature style that balances controlled figurative elements with expressive, chaotic energy—exploring themes of identity, isolation, and the human condition. His work spans from large-scale public murals to highly sought-after studio pieces, cementing his place as a leading figure in contemporary street art.

This hand-drawn self-portrait on canvas offers a rare and personal variation of Whatson’s visual language, executed in its most minimal and immediate form. Rendered in simple, confident line work and accompanied by the handwritten “WHAT-SON.” text, the piece captures the artist’s recognizable character style while emphasizing spontaneity and authenticity. The use of canvas further elevates the work from a casual sketch into a fully realized original, bridging the gap between street practice and fine art presentation.

Created in May 2023 during the painting of Whatson’s 'Lighthouse' mural at the iconic Hester Street & Bowery location in New York City, this piece carries a direct connection to a significant public artwork and moment in the artist’s career. Drawn and signed in person, it stands as both an original artwork and a documented artifact of a live street art event. Accompanied by printed proof photographs capturing Whatson in the act of creating and signing the piece, it offers a strong layer of provenance and authenticity.

As a one-of-a-kind, hand-drawn original on canvas—tied to a specific place, time, and major mural—this work represents an exceptionally rare opportunity to collect a direct, personal expression from Martin Whatson. It captures not just the artist’s hand, but the environment and energy that continue to define his global impact.