Many artists, photographers, and filmmakers have been able to express their passion for Jiu-Jitsu in their art.  Here are a couple of artists that I feel have done a great job expressing Jiu-Jitsu in different artistic mediums.

Artwork

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” –Pablo Picasso

Artist:  Meerkatsu (Seymour Yang)

Website: www.meerkatsu.com 

Seymour Yang is an artist and illustrator from the UK.  He has created many Jiu-Jitsu inspired illustrations using his own unique style.  You may have seen his work on some BJJ clothing.  Check out his website and gallery at www.meerkatsu.com. 

Also check out www.tapcancerout.org, a non-profit organization raising awareness and funds through BJJ Tournaments, donations, merchandise, and sponsorships! Meerkatsu has done some work for them in the past. 

Artist:  Gawakoto (Bong Abad)

Website: www.gawakotoclothing.co.uk/portfolio/ 

Gawakoto is another UK based company making awesome Jiu-Jitsu clothing with amazing illustrations.  “Gawa Ko To” is Tagalog (Filipino), and translates to, “I made this.”  The artist draws his influence from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the Filipino martial art, Kali.   Check out his site!

Photography

A true photograph need not be explained, nor can it be contained in words” – Ansel Adams

Photographer:  Stefan Kocey

Website:  www.stefankocev.com

Stefan is a professional photographer.  He also is a BJJ Black Belt who has taken photos of BJJ and MMA fighters.  His photos capture the feeling of a fight/fighter without seeing anything more than a single photo.  His writing and photos can often be found on Vice.com’s Fightland.  Check out his article and photos on the Metamoris 4 event. http://fightland.vice.com/blog/the-faces-of-metamoris-4

Photographer:  Mik Milan

Website: www.yourenotspecial.exposure.co/people-who-train

This is a website that I came across lately that showcases photographs of regular people who train in Jiu-Jitsu.  Check out his website or Facebook page called “People Who Train.”

Filmmaking

“Film is incredibly democratic and accessible, it’s probably the best option if you actual want to change the world, not just re-decorate it.” -Banksy

Filmmaker:  Stewart Cooper

Website:  www.stuartcooperfilms.com

When it comes to filmmaking and Jiu-Jitsu, only one name really comes to mind.  Stewart Cooper has made many independent films on BJJ.  One of my personal favorite Jiu-Jitsu films has always been “The Spirit of Jiu-Jitsu.”  If you haven’t watched this this video and are a fan of Jiu-Jitsu, I implore you to watch this video right away.  After that, watch the rest of his videos.  Check out the links in the video to find out how to donate so he can continue to make awe-inspiring BJJ documentaries.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgjJWKV_36o

These are just a few examples of how people have incorporated Jiu-Jitsu into their own passions.  Who are some of your favorite artists that have showcased Jiu-Jitsu in their art? 

Written By:  Patrick Flores

Graice Barra Chino

Twitter: patjflores