Kaos (Lars Hjerstedt, born 1971) is a legendary Swedish graffiti artist who has been painting since the 1980s. He is often referred to as a King, a term used in graffiti culture to refer only to the most highly respected artists.

In the mid-1990s Kaos’ work could also be seen in Helsinki. He painted with Finland’s most renowned graffiti artists, particularly the artist using the HIV tag, and as part of the Cliff Barnes crew.

Exploration is about love and danger. Joy, sorrow, panic, success and failure are part of graffiti and are apparent in the works. The artist’s recognisable comic strip style and unusual use of colour are also evident in the works.

“For the first time I have permission to paint at a metro station.”
Kaos

Kaos lives and works in Stockholm. Though his works have been displayed in galleries and museums around Europe, he has not abandoned his original line of work, painting graffiti at night.

Exploration is produced in cooperation by HAM and Make Your Mark Gallery.