AN EXHIBITION FOR AN ‘ICON’ IS NOW OPEN
‘ICON’ — the landmark solo exhibition by DEFER
Since launching on 12 June, ‘ICON’ — the landmark solo exhibition by Los Angeles-based artist DEFER — has captivated audiences at Woodbury House’s flagship Mayfair gallery. As the exhibition enters its final weeks, it’s clear: this is more than a show — it’s a moment. A moment of recognition, mastery, and community, brought to life by an artist whose influence continues to transcend borders and artistic boundaries.
Now on view by appointment until 31 July, ‘ICON’ offers collectors and art lovers a rare, unfiltered encounter with DEFER at the peak of his creative powers.
A Spectrum of Scale and Energy
Walking through ‘ICON’ is a sensory journey — every work pulses with an energy that borders on the spiritual. At the heart of the exhibition are large-scale canvas pieces, many of which were created on-site during DEFER’s artist residency at Woodbury House. These commanding works feel alive: layered, dynamic, and immersive, with calligraphic abstractions that invite viewers into a meditative state of rhythm and movement.
Executed with absolute control and intention, the scale of these works allows DEFER’s unique visual language to unfold in full force. The vibrancy of colour is striking — deep pinks, cobalt blues, electric golds, and inky blacks swirl and collide in a charged dance of tradition and futurism.
Alongside these monumental canvases are smaller original works that offer a more intimate experience. These pieces, though modest in size, are rich in detail — each mark a testament to DEFER’s decades-long refinement of a visual alphabet rooted in graffiti, spirituality, and heritage. The works on paper, in particular, reveal a delicate sensitivity — as if the artist’s hand still lingers on the surface.
Limited edition print, ‘Maximum Overdrive’
The limited edition print release, strictly capped at fifty, has become a standout favourite among collectors. Compact yet powerful, each print encapsulates DEFER’s core themes and signature energy, offering a gateway into the artist’s world for both new and seasoned collectors.
Exclusively available worldwide via Woodbury House and availability is extremely limited. Click the link to secure yours before they’re gone:
https://woodburyhouseart.com/product/maximum-overdrive-2025/
A Night to Remember: The Spirit of the Opening
The ‘ICON’ opening night wasn’t just a private view — it was a true gathering of community. The space buzzed with energy as collectors, curators, creatives, and long-time followers came together to celebrate not just a new body of work, but the enduring legacy of an artist who continues to inspire.
DEFER was present and fully engaged throughout the evening — not hidden behind the scenes, but among the people, connecting, sharing, and exchanging stories. Guests were given the rare opportunity to speak with the artist directly, learning first-hand the stories behind specific works, his creative process, and the philosophies that shape his practice.
What stood out most was DEFER’s humility and generosity. Whether you were encountering his work for the first time or had followed his journey for years, DEFER made time and space for conversation — embodying the very values his work represents: discipline, connection, cultural history, and evolution.
At Woodbury House, we pride ourselves on hosting these moments of genuine exchange — where art, artists, and audiences collide in meaningful ways. ‘ICON’ is a shining example of that mission, and we’re excited to continue building on this momentum with future exhibitions. In fact, our next show launches this August, debuting a new artist to our Mayfair programme. Full details will be announced very soon.
The atmosphere on the night was lifted even further by a champagne reception and a live DJ set from Martin2Smoove, providing the perfect soundtrack to a night that celebrated not only an artist — but an entire movement.
Final Weeks: Your Last Chance to Experience ‘ICON’
As DEFER’s international profile continues to soar — from global brand collaborations to his cover feature on Street Art Icons (Assouline) — ‘ICON’ stands as a timely and powerful reminder of his deep cultural and artistic significance.
The exhibition remains on view until 31 July 2025 at Woodbury House, 29 Sackville Street, Mayfair, W1S 3DX.
Viewings are by private appointment only.
To book your visit, request a catalogue, or enquire about available works — including the final limited edition prints — please get in touch or register your interest here:
