Each week, HIYA Gallery looks back on the history of art and more precisely on the history of street art and its associated movements. We try to highlight the pioneers of this movement who have become legends, the mythical works that have left their mark in the history of street art, as well as important cultural events concerning the development of street art and graffiti, such as books rare or cult, exhibitions making reference in the history of the movement, films and other events.

We believe that in order to understand and feel the art of our time, we must constantly learn where it came from and what its roots are. That is why, alongside the representation and promotion of artists, we want to share with you knowledge about the history of street art.

Paul 183 

Russian street artist Pavel Pukhov, better known as Pavel 183 (1983-2013) was one of the most famous and recognized street artists on the Russian scene. His works included spray painted murals on public structures to audio and video combinations, sometimes accompanied by a political message.

Pavel 183 had succeeded in meticulously protecting his image incognito, never showing his face and never sharing too much about himself.

Over the years, he had become a well-known figure in the Russian art scene, creating his own unique style that could be instantly recognized on the streets. Pavel 183 had received international recognition when the Guardian published an article on the street art movement in Russia, calling it the "Russian Banksy".

His art was witty, quite reactionary and sometimes aggressive. Although Pavel's art was often seen only through the prism of political criticism and protest, he refused to be considered a "political artist".