Dex Fernandez's iconic Garapata is a symbol of resilience and rebellion, leaving its mark on both the streets and runways of the art and fashion world

Words Julia de Armas
Mar 6, 2024

Caloocan-based Dexter “Dex” Fernandez, a prominent figure in the field of interdisciplinary graffiti art and illustrative maximalism, is best known for his iconic character “Garapata” (Tick), through which helped him carve a unique niche in the art world by blending elements of street art, graphic design, and surrealist paintings to create artworks that no eye could miss.

Setting the Street Art Scene at ALT Philippines

At the recent iteration of ALT Philippines on February 24th at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay, we participated in the sixth ALT Conversation: “Break Down the Walls! How Street Art Has Seeped into the Mainstream.” The discussion was led by Dex Fernandez, along with other street artists such as Doktor Karayom, Bitto, Archie Oclos, Dennis Bato, and Gaby dela Merced.

The panel explored street art's diverse role, discussing its challenges, impact on society and cities, balancing underground roots with mainstream recognition, and the tension between commercialization and artistic integrity. The artists shared personal experiences, highlighting street art's accessibility via social media and stressing the need to preserve its rebellious ethos.

Fernandez's psychedelic compositions, challenging conventional distinctions between high and low art, captivate audiences across various mediums. Garapata graces collages, drawings, photographs, layered portraits, and expansive murals throughout the Philippines. Beyond national borders, Garapata enjoys global recognition, having been showcased in diverse locales such as Indonesia, Japan, Paris, New York, Tokyo, and Singapore.

From Street Art to Street Style

But his “infestations” don't stop there. In 2023, the multinational clothing company H&M and the lifestyle and streetwear brand Don't Blame the Kids Apparel Co. (DBTK) collaborated with Fernandez to turn Garapata from street art to street style. Inspired by Fernandez’s early childhood and upbringing, this three-way collaboration highlights the iconic Garapata while incorporating DBTK’s design philosophy.

This year, Lakat, a conscious footwear brand, crafted its shoes from Philippine tropical fabrics using pineapple fibers. They invited Fernandez to use their sustainable sneakers as a canvas for “wearable art.” The LAKART Series was exclusively sold at the 2024 Art Fair from February 16 to 18.