Art and James St go hand in hand – the intersection of well-considered architecture, commissioned artworks and a curated mix of trailblazing retailers. The latest addition to James St’s commissioned work will see Joos van Barneveld, commonly referred to as DOES, leave his vibrant mark on the precinct. DOES is a world-renowned street artist from The Netherlands who is known for his contemporary, stylised graffiti writing – the letters D, O, E and S are the foundation of his work, whilst an explosion of colour and shapes assume the narrative.  

Joos van Barneveld was born in 1982 in Veghel, The Netherlands. Though he has been active in graffiti since 1997, soccer was his first love. At the age of 9 he was chosen to train with the youth selection of one of the country’s professional soccer clubs. His disciplined nature, focus and dedication eventually won him a spot on a team in the highest division. Throughout his soccer career he lead a double life; balancing the public persona of a professional athlete with the secret life of an underground graffiti writer. When an injury ended his athletic pursuits at the age of 28, DOES took it as an opportunity to focus solely on his art. He quickly carved out a reputation as one of the best practitioners of the craft, and today his work is featured in exhibitions and collections across the globe.

Although his style is pure, DOES doesn’t like to limit himself to one discipline. Over the years, DOES’s work has diversified into illustrative drawings, prints, murals and canvasses, and his latest body of work designed especially for James St will be housed on the wall between Gerard’s Bistro and Mecca Cosmetica. 

Catch DOES live in action next week as he paints his mark on James St! Gerard’s Bistro will team up with the artist on Thursday evening for somewhat of a paint and sip but DOES will be doing the painting and you will be doing the sipping! Think 3-courses and free flowing drinks in the private dining room of Gerard’s Bistro, a live art show and the chance to meet the man behind the brand, DOES. Limited tickets are available so be sure to secure yours ASAP – find out more about the dinner pairing here.

If you miss out on tickets to the dinner don’t sweat it! DOES will be pulling up a stool at Gerard’s Bar on Friday night to meet and greet guests interested in his work – there will be a tap-takeover and DOES works for sale – bookings not required.. Cheers to DOES!