The exhibition by young local artist Sergio Torres explores creativity, nostalgia and the cultural references of a generation
The Centro de Información Juvenil (CIJ) at the TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes is hosting “Graffiti + Pokémon”, an exhibition by young El Sauzal artist Sergio Torres, until 28 August.
The exhibition brings together urban art and the Pokémon universe, using familiar characters and imagery to explore creativity, childhood memories, play and identity.
There’s a simple idea behind it. Growing up doesn’t mean you have to leave your imagination behind.
From skateboarding to graffiti
Just 23 years old, Torres, who works under the artistic name “Ayer vi un erizo”, developed his interest in art through skateboarding.
Growing up visiting the skatepark in Los Realejos with his father introduced him to a wider street culture involving skateboarding, rap, graffiti and pop culture.
He initially experimented with graffiti lettering before moving towards characters and visual storytelling.
One particular Pokémon played an important role in that change.
“I did a Gengar freehand many years ago and loved it. That’s when I thought: I can do something more developed.”
His murals now combine sprays and acrylic paints, with different techniques used to create textures and unfinished brush effects.
Pokémon meets street art
“Graffiti + Pokémon” brings together recognisable characters from the Pokémon universe with the visual language of urban art.
The result is an exhibition aimed at connecting different generations while showing that graffiti can be much more than something you see on a wall.
It also fits neatly with the CIJ’s aim of providing young artists with somewhere to showcase their work.
Free exhibition in Santa Cruz
The exhibition is free to visit until 28 August, Monday to Friday from 4pm to 8pm.
📍 Centro de Información Juvenil (CIJ), TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
As part of the project, Torres also held a free graffiti workshop on 7 August for young people aged between 12 and 35, where participants created their own designs combining urban lettering with their favourite Pokémon.
The exhibition forms part of “CIJ Enseña”, a Cabildo initiative giving young artists from Tenerife the opportunity to display their work at the CIJ.