Biography of Hakim Idriss, also known as Socrome:
1. Birth and childhood (1984-2000):
– Hakim Idriss was born in Paris on May 30, 1984, of Comorian origin. He grew up in the French capital, a place of cultural diversity that would have a major influence on his artistic journey.
– From an early age, he developed an interest in drawing and painting. However, it was during his adolescence, while living in the Comoros, that he discovered graffiti, an art form that would become central to his career.
2. Discovery of graffiti and artistic beginnings (2000-2010):
– Back in Paris in the 2000s, Hakim immersed himself in the world of graffiti. Inspired by the great names of New York graffiti, he developed a style that blends abstraction and modern calligraphy, drawing on the codes of hip-hop and American wildstyle.
– In 2002-2003, he founded the collective “Le Chat Noir,” with which he created large mural frescoes in Paris and other European cities. This was a key period during which he refined his artistic approach and developed a sense of discipline in his work, becoming increasingly comfortable with executing large-scale collective works.
3. Travel and collaborations (2010-2020):
– With his Franco-Comorian influences, Hakim traveled across Europe and the United States, where he painted alongside local artists in the Bronx and Brooklyn. These international experiences enriched his practice and allowed him to expand his artistic network and deepen his knowledge of his craft.
– In the Comoros, he played a key role in the emergence of graffiti, participating in various artistic projects and representing his country at festivals. He was heavily involved in the local scene, mentoring young Comorian talents, and his many projects in the Comoros demonstrate his dedication to this art form.
4. Transition to contemporary art (since 2020):
– After years of mural practice, Hakim turned his attention to working on canvas. He adopted techniques such as knife painting and explored new forms of expression while staying true to the raw energy and graffiti codes that marked his early career.
– This transition to canvas allows him to dedicate more time to each piece and explore more introspective aspects of his work, while continuing to draw on his urban and cultural influences.