The scene set for this interview was like stepping into the pages of a couture comic book. In the metropolis of New York City… At the grand entry to the Valentino Flagship Store, one of the world’s most revered designer shops, stood the unassuming figure of a street artist. He seemed completely at ease within the world around him, yet at the same time he appeared just as content to be an outsider. Through the glass of the store window, could be seen a larger than life Wonder Woman in the process of being reimagined by his “mighty” brush.

When we met, he was catching some air on Fifth Avenue, on a break from painting the in-store mural installation. He introduced himself…

“I am, SOLO.”

SOLO, a Roman street artist, began his early career as a young boy street painting. Later he went on to study fine art at the university. After graduating he returned to the streets to hone his art, finding success in his re-interpretation of superheroes inspired by his love for comics. “I learned everything I know from comic books” he said.

Wonder Woman, depicted as a heroine fighting for justice, love, peace, and gender equality was the ideal choice for Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, Creative Directors of the Maison Valentino, in collaboration with SOLO. Together they created the special capsule collection Wonder Woman Valentino, as “a tribute to all women, for their capacity of continuously balancing many things in life.” Live painting of the mural by SOLO, within the Valentino Flagship Stores worldwide, New York, Milan and Rome created a very personal experience for pedestrians and shoppers.

“a tribute to all women, for their capacity of continuously balancing many things in life.”

Let’s play.