Rotterdam-based illustrator Joren Joshua creates witty, absurd takes on everyday life through his humorous illustrations. His work combines playfulness with enough complexity to invite a closer look. Influenced by graffiti and printmaking, Joren’s style is bold yet dynamic, and he’s brought this unique approach to a wide range of projects over the years.

In celebration of the 50th edition of the Breda Jazz Festival, a mural was created to symbolize the festival's past, present, and future. It’s a festival the artist loved attending during his eight years living in Breda.

Joren Joshua noted how the city fully embraces the festival. It lives in every street and corner, from large stages on the water to cozy tents on squares, with bands mingling among dancing crowds. The artist at the center of the mural stands on a unique stage: "the pillar," a platform that once marked the heart of the Old Style Jazz Festival on the Grote Markt.

Breda Jazz Festival is Europe’s oldest and largest multi-day jazz festival, kicking off every Ascension Day at 1 p.m. on the Grote Markt. Since its start in 1971, when it focused on jazz styles from before 1940, the festival has grown to include a mix of jazz styles across around 20 outdoor stages throughout the city center.

This mural was created in collaboration with Blind Walls Gallery.

Material: Latex on brick 

Dimensions: 11 x 16 meters

Photo's by: Edwin Wiekens