THE SCRIBBLERS - Esnore (Curated by GROG)
Text: Judy Rhum
Direction: Simone Natale
This chapter of THE SCRIBBLERS focuses on a writer we met during our ongoing research — Rethink everything you've seen so far, as this interview takes us through the streets of Santiago, Chile, diving into ESNORE's need to find a new and never-before-seen language.
To be continued: philosophy, research, resilience.
When graffiti is both a faithful ally and a reason to improve yourself.
Esnore takes us where nothing is left to chance, putting us in front of a dense and thoughtful series of real "wall exercises." A mix of persistent research, patient analysis, trials, and errors: this is the process that gives the writer an incredible awareness of marks in space; blending unexpected geometries that transform into alien-like lettering or futuristic glyphs, where even the tracking and kerning are spot-on.
So, where do we start Esnore’s story? Probably with a timeline that contextualizes the dynamics that pushed him to embark on this long, passionate journey — like it often happens to most players — he spent more time on the streets than at home, making graffiti a solid synonym of comfort zone…
“Hey everyone, my name is Mauricio, I'm 31 years old, and I live in Bajos De Mena, Puente Alto, Chile.”
Let’s start with the most basic question, even though it might seem cliché and boring for the readers, but I'm asking it because I know you have an almost unique story: how did you start and what drew you to the graffiti world?
E: I started doing graffiti when I was about 4, out of curiosity. It began as fun, but since I was constantly dealing with family issues from a young age, it became a way to escape and distance myself from my reality. By age 9, I was spending more time on the streets than at home, and graffiti became my “protective shield,” helping me survive and navigate the world.
Every form of protection turns into resilience techniques: how did graffiti help you cope with these challenges?
E: This medium was my loyal companion even back then, and over time I realized that graffiti was becoming a life goal, and like all goals, it gave me hope to better myself. It occupied most of my thoughts, and I practiced it regularly. Along the way, I met older, wiser people who guided me and showed me various perspectives. Thanks to their teachings, I understood many things, especially the "street codes" for painting. I learned to observe and appreciate others' work, using it as a constant reference. Over time, I developed my own style through many trials and errors.
Beyond this addiction to analysis and research, let's talk about your evolution. At what point did your passion for drawing turn into an obsession with lettering? Don’t get me wrong, I call it “obsession” because your lettering portfolio shows a vast collection of methods and approaches, sometimes also very meticulous. What was the turning point that made you realize you could even invent your own alphabet?
E: Drawing has always been a passion of mine, which led me to the art world. I found it interesting to combine my artistic skills with graffiti, which initially focused on tags, pieces, and throw-ups. This led to a surprising evolutionary process, helping me develop my artistic vision and create works that go far beyond my initial perception of graffiti; leading to tags, letters, characters with a completely abstract flavor, that invite or challenge both me and the viewer to continuous reflection.
“In graffiti, to truly evolve, we need to let go of the fear of change.”
Kind of a loop I’d say! Many creative minds in this field often face a crossroads in their artistic path: explore further and develop new approaches, or "stay true" to their roots and refine the acquired techniques? How do you balance maintaining your “street cred” - to say it brutally - while evolving your artistic vision?
E: As time passed, I became comfortable working independently, usually in series and simply, creating recognizable imagery without losing the essence of my “street presence.” I realized there isn’t just one version of me and that I must always work with love and respect, both for myself and the environment, regardless of whether what I do is legal or not. I have to be honest; I don’t currently make a living from my art and facemany daily challenges. I work tirelessly seeking opportunities to move forward.
This last point you touched on is a sore point for many and definitely relatable worldwide. It’s a tough field, especially when it comes to a specific niche like hand-style. What drives you to continue pursuing your art despite these challenges? Do you have any advice or encouragement for those on a similar path or younger folks?
E: I live my passion to the fullest and take pride in my work, feeling proud of who I am and driven by small achievements, like doing a simple tag. These principles have shaped my current work and life vision, learning from my past, being aware of the present, and fighting for a better future. I aim to inspire new generations, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and change their destiny, no matter how bleak it may seem.
In 2023, you were one of the writers featured by Grog for the “Ink Heads” series, where you show some pretty hypnotic actions on the streets of Santiago in episode No. 22. Can you tell us more about this project and the evident concept you shaped behind it?
E: This project was born from the need to find new ways to bring out my signature on the streets, I wanted to carve out a creative space without relying on repetitive memory and routine. That's why in the episode I hold a sheet of paper in my hand - some studies and sketches that I wanted to reproduce exactly as they came out on paper - as a guide to execute the action with a more illustrative approach. Last but not least, the three dots after each signature mean that this will continue…
“I wanted to carve out a creative space without relying on repetitive memory and routine...”
