An artist in hiding. A city that can’t ignore him.
Poznan street artist Noriaki’s character of Watcher (commonly known as Peryskop), has appeared on the walls of almost every district in the city. Although the artist has his own original line, he has still been compared to the legendary Banksy, not in style but like real street culture — he stays lowkey. No big public persona, no oversharing.
We met up with Noriaki in his secret and very messy studio as he was experimenting in front of our very eyes!
The Interview
Hi Noriaki. Your watchers are everywhere and are in the spirit of Poznań, although in the majesty of the law … illegal. Have you ever been caught by the police?
Sure. The last time was in Barcelona.
Many people see you as a legend in Poland…
Hahaha. I don’t see myself as a legend. I just do what I love to do.
When did you make your first watcher?
Actually, it was in London a long time ago!
Why did you start with the watcher?
It was originally placed next to bad things in the city to point them out, but eventually, it became a drug for me, and I needed to do it more and more.
When did the first one appear in Poznań?
Around 2010
Did you think it would get to be so well-known?
No way! It’s taken a life of its own. I’ve even seen people with watcher tattoos!
Have people copied you?
Sure. I’ve seen many copies.
Is it easy to tell which ones are not yours?
Of course. It’s my signature.
Does it bother you?
Not at all. I love it. It means something different for everybody.
Has the watcher helped with your status?
Sure. It wasn’t planned but yes.
Has it helped you with girls?
Hahaha. Yes, of course!
Noriaki is your street name. Do your friends call you Noriaki?
Yes
How about your mother?
Hahaha. No, she calls me by my real name 🙂
What is your real name?
hahaha. You’re a nice guy, but im trusting you not to expose my face. Be happy with that.
Are you still adding watchers on Poznań walls?
Not so much, but yes. I do more on my travels nowadays.
How many countries have a watcher?
For sure more than 30
Furthest away?
India, Tokyo, Japan.
I see you are exploring new styles?
Sure. I’ve been into contemporary paintings for a while. I’m always trying to push my skills and try new things. I cooperate with a few galleries in Poznań and around the world that sell my paintings.
How much do they cost?
They start from 350 euros to about 10,000 euros.
Many people call you Polands Bansky!
Hahaha. I don’t know about that. Our styles are very different; however, our broadly understood street art is something we have in common.
Wrapping Up
What’s in the future for Noriaki?
Focusing a lot on my paintings, exhibitions, and traveling.
It was a pleasure to meet a legend. Finally, I have one more question. Will you ever stop painting the watcher?
No way. It’s just the beginning!
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