Alex ‘DEFER’ Kizu is one of the most influential figures in Los Angeles graffiti and street art, known for his intricate, flowing letterforms and calligraphic abstractions.

Emerging from the first generation of LA graffiti writers in the early 1980s, DEFER played a crucial role in shaping the West Coast graffiti movement, blending traditional graffiti, typographic motifs, and cultural symbolism into a style he calls ‘Spiritual Language.’

A founding member of legendary graffiti crews K2S (Kill to Succeed), STN, and KGB, DEFER honed his craft in the streets of Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, where graffiti served as both a visual identity and a means of self-expression. His work, deeply rooted in urban culture and the raw energy of street art, has evolved into a highly refined and intricate artistic language, earning him recognition in both street and fine art circles worldwide.

DEFER’s artistic journey began with graffiti lettering and hand styles, which were an essential part of LA’s underground graffiti scene in the 1980s. His early works focused on letter manipulation, intricate layering, and precise line work, setting him apart from other graffiti writers of the time. Over the years, his style evolved into a form of gestural abstraction, distorting traditional letterforms to create fluid, expressive compositions that blur the boundaries between graffiti, calligraphy, and fine art.

While rooted in street culture, DEFER’s work has transcended graffiti’s original limitations, moving onto canvas, murals, large-scale installations, and collaborations with major brands. His transition from the urban landscape to prestigious galleries and museums reflects the evolution of street art as a legitimate and powerful form of contemporary fine art.

His works have been exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide, including the Getty Museum, LA Louvre, MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles), and the Beyond The Streets exhibitions (2019, 2020, 2021). He has also collaborated with global brands such as Nike, Jordan, Beats by Dre, and the LA Lakers, further cementing his influence in the art world.

At the core of DEFER’s work is his unique concept of ‘Spiritual Language’—a highly intricate, almost meditative form of abstract calligraphy that he describes as a visual representation of subconscious thought and movement.

Using a combination of free-flowing brushstrokes, complex layering, and delicate typography, DEFER creates highly detailed paintings that feel both chaotic and harmonious. His compositions are often infused with hidden messages and abstract symbols, making each piece a deeply personal and spiritual experience.

DEFER has spoken about his artistic process as a state of flow, where intuition guides his movements rather than predetermined plans. In his own words:

“My ultimate goal in creating my works is to reach a ‘flow state’ or a sublime state of being – where the brush and paint flow effortlessly.”

This approach results in a raw yet sophisticated energy, allowing viewers to interpret his art on an emotional and spiritual level rather than through literal meaning.

In another interview, DEFER described how his work feels deeply instinctive, as though it channels something beyond conscious thought:

“It feels like I’m channeling something from beyond and that’s why I say it’s spiritual, I can’t explain it.”

His paintings bridge the gap between street art and fine art, giving his works a timeless and universal appeal that resonates with audiences far beyond the graffiti world.

DEFER’s contribution to Los Angeles graffiti and street art culture is unparalleled. As a pioneering figure in West Coast graffiti, he has inspired multiple generations of artists, standing alongside other LA graffiti legends like Chaz Bojórquez, Retna, Zes, and Saber.

His influence extends beyond his own work—DEFER has been featured in numerous publications, including:

• Art in America

• Los Angeles Times

• The History of American Graffiti

• Graffiti LA by Steve Grody

Additionally, his work has been archived in the Getty Research Institute’s special collections as part of the “Liber Amicorum” project, a testament to his historical significance in the graffiti movement.

DEFER has also been featured in television and film, including an appearance on the Discovery Channel show “Rods and Wheels”, further exposing his work to new audiences.

Woodbury House has the privilege of working closely with DEFER as his exclusive distributor, expanding his presence in the international art market and bringing his intricate, calligraphic works to collectors worldwide.

As a gallery specialising in street and graffiti art, Woodbury House recognises the cultural and historical significance of DEFER’s contributions to the movement and remains committed to ensuring his work is accessible, appreciated, and preserved for future generations.

In 2023, Woodbury House hosted ‘Spiritual Language,’ DEFER’s solo exhibition at its flagship Mayfair gallery, marking a significant moment in his growing global recognition. This was followed in 2024 by ‘Rogue Odyssey’ in Miami, a highly acclaimed presentation of his latest works.

In addition to solo exhibitions, Woodbury House has featured DEFER’s work in major international art fairs, including Scope Art Show on Miami Beach in December 2024. In the same week as Miami Art Week 2024, a defining moment in DEFER’s career came with his unveiling as the artist whose artwork was chosen as the front cover for the newly acclaimed ‘Street Art Icons’ book, published by Wynwood Walls & Assouline—a testament to his influence and legacy within the street art movement.

For those looking to acquire exclusive works by DEFER, Woodbury House offers:

• Accessibility to works on the Primary Market

• Acquiring works directly from the studio of DEFER

• Unrivalled Provenance

• Exclusive acquisitions

• Superior-quality artworks

• Unmatched insight and knowledge

With extensive expertise and deep connections within the art market, Woodbury House provides collectors with confidence and a competitive advantage when acquiring works by DEFER.

As the #1 ranked art gallery on Trustpilot in London, many of the gallery’s glowing reviews stem from their help in guiding collectors through the acquisition of DEFER’s artworks, ensuring they receive the highest quality pieces with the best provenance.

Are you interested in upcoming exhibitions, available works, exclusive insights, or unique opportunities? Let’s connect and explore the world of DEFER together.