Mana Urban Arts Project: How & Nosm

How & Nosm finished a new mural in Jersey City this month as part of the latest edition to the Mana Urban Arts Project, a collaboration between Mana Contemporary and Jonathan LeVine Gallery. The piece, titled At the Center of It All, explores themes that the artist duo, as well as twin brothers, think are univercally common. Subjects such as danger, aggression, violence, greed, materialism and narcissism are depicted through different cues and symbols. By highlighting these everyday social ailments, the New York-based artists hope to question the human approach to the pursuit of happiness and ask what is really at the center of it all.  Using their signature color palette consisting of shades of red against black & white, the two were able to show their impressive can control as well as the ability to use very different styles. From geo-based patterns and shapes, Hokusai-influenced elements, graffiti-based characters or totemic structures to surrealist compositions, this large wall is another maze of incredible visuals that takes time to dissect and absorb. While creating both gallery pieces as well as public works, How and Nosm hope their art is more than a decorative element and can give people a chance to pause, connect and find some relief and happiness.

Big thanks to Joe Russo Photography for documenting the entire process.