As a renowned street artist, Sonny ‘Sundancer’ Behan has dedicated much of his career to raising awareness about endangered animals through his striking murals. His collaborations with various organisations, such as the United Nations, UNICEF and WWF, to depict endangered animals in public art have not only showcased his artistic talent but also served as a powerful advocacy medium creating much needed awareness. Originally from the UK, Sonny’s relocation to South Africa as a child has deeply influenced his artistic journey, exposing him to the rich biodiversity and wildlife of the region. This fusion of experiences has undeniably shaped his artistic vision and commitment to highlighting the plight of endangered species.
However, Sonny has recently embarked on an artistic transition, delving into the realm of abstract art. In this new body of work, both in the studio and in murals, he has opted to exclude animals from his compositions, placing greater emphasis on the background elements. This shift represents a significant difference from his previous intricate detailed style, bringing curiosity and intrigue. Check out our conversation with Sonny as we delve into the inspiration, process, and meaning behind his purely abstract pieces.
GraffitiStreet
Your previous murals have featured elements of abstraction as they intertwine with your passion for wildlife conservation and environmental advocacy, but it was never the primary focus of the mural, as in Queens Pride, for example. What motivated you to delve into abstract art exclusively?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
Moving into pure abstraction has felt like a natural step for me. I’ve always aimed to evoke a feeling in my work, which is why I’ve blended abstract elements into my realistic wildlife paintings. It lets me create a dreamlike world that goes beyond a traditional animal portrait. For me, nature is a place of reflection, where I gain deeper perspective, and through my art, I want to draw people into that reflective space, beyond just the image of animals. Abstraction gives me the freedom to explore these ideas without needing literal subjects. By focusing on textures, colours, and forms, I can tap into that primal connection to nature and to ourselves—something detail alone can’t always capture. I’ll keep including animals within abstract settings, but this focus on pure abstraction has been an exciting new direction that I’m eager to keep exploring.
Queens Pride. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer.
GraffitiStreet
In your murals such as “Resurgence,” the endangered animals, in this case the bearded vulture, are in conjunction with elements of abstraction. Could the lack of animals in your purely abstract pieces be interpreted as a metaphor for their endangered status?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
I like letting viewers connect with my work in their own way, through their instincts and emotions, rather than giving it a set meaning. While I’ve highlighted endangered species in some of my pieces, my deeper goal has always been to simply inspire a connection with nature—and, in turn, a deeper connection to ourselves. Realistic wildlife has helped me do this, but lately, I’ve felt the urge to take a more subtle approach, finding new ways to express these connections without relying on obvious subjects.
Resurgence, Vision Art Fest Switzerland. Image Copyright Sonny Sundancer
GraffitiStreet
What kind of spatial or environmental considerations do you take into account when creating purely abstract mural pieces for specific locations?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
Space and environment definitely plays a role in my work, but it really depends on the piece. Sometimes, I look closely at the setting and what kind of energy the space has, allowing the colours, textures, and flow of the piece to reflect the local landscape and the atmosphere of that location. But at other times I prefer to create something in juxtapose to its surroundings; bringing bright colour in contrast to a run-down area for example. I like the idea of creating a “portal” to another world. This is one of the reasons why I was first drawn to bringing wild animals into urban environments where you would least expect to find them.
Bahati, Cape Town. Image Copyright Sonny Sundancer.
GraffitiStreet
The Zebra shark mural for SeaWalls in Cape Town was absolutely stunning. What role does nature and the environment play in influencing the colour palettes you choose for your abstract pieces?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
Nature definitely plays into my choice of colours, but I’m also influenced by the urban environment so it’s often a bit of a mix. For the SeaWalls project, I was inspired by the rich, shifting hues of the ocean and the unique patterns of the zebra shark. In my abstract work, I often use colours that draw from natural elements but in a muted, dreamlike way, almost as if they’re memories or impressions of a time or place. I enjoy bringing my realistic animals into these otherworldly settings, caught between reality and a dream.
Sonny Sundancer, Chromatic Current SeaWalls Cape Town. Image copyright Sonny
GraffitiStreet
How do you approach the use of colour, movement, and form in your abstract compositions?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
For me, it’s a way to convey emotions and experiences that realism can’t fully capture. Colour is often intuitive—I choose shades that resonate with the mood I’m aiming for. Movement is critical; I want viewers to feel a flow, as if they’re journeying through the piece. After more than a decade painting in the streets, my work—though deeply rooted in nature—definitely carries an urban edge, influenced by the clean angles, shapes and textures of urban architecture, as well as graffiti and the gritty aesthetics of the streets. This urban influence blends with fluid, organic forms that mimic natural patterns, creating a fusion of the city and the wild.
Corpus Christie, TX. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
GraffitiStreet
Can you share any insights into the textures or hidden narratives within your recent abstract works that may not be immediately apparent to viewers?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
I’ve always worked with layers to create depth and texture. For example when painting fur, I build up layer upon layer upon layer, instead of just blocking in colour and adding detail on top which is the more typical approach. I feel like this gives my animal paintings a unique form of realism. Lately, I’ve been focusing more on the abstract layers in my work and what they represent. In my new pieces, if you look closely, each layer hides, changes, or emphasises what’s in front or behind it. They all come together as one image but also exist separately; almost like parallel universes. These layers can represent many things, for example it can act as a metaphor for different experiences, like memories or impressions that aren’t fully clear but still leave a mark. This layered depth means that you’re discovering something new each time you look at it, much like how we continually find layers within ourselves. I have lots of ideas of different ways to explore this theme in the future, so I’m excited to see where it takes me.
Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
GraffitiStreet
What specific emotions or messages do you aim to convey through your abstract art?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
My goal is to encourage introspection and a connection to the authentic self, while serving as a reminder of our connection to nature. There’s a quiet power in nature that brings a heightened level of awareness, whether that’s due to a sense of unease or awe, and I aim to convey that duality. I also hope to invoke a sense of curiosity, encouraging viewers to explore their own emotions and find a personal connection within the work.
Whispers of Twilight. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
GraffitiStreet
How do you approach the titles of your abstract pieces, and do they hold significance in conveying any intended messages or themes?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
Titles are often one of the last things I decide, as they need to capture the essence of the piece without being too prescriptive. I prefer titles that are slightly ambiguous, allowing viewers to interpret the piece in their own way. They’re intended as subtle guides, hinting at the themes but leaving room for personal connection and interpretation.
Horizon, 2024, GraffitiStreet X: A DECADE. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
Horizon, by Sonny Sundancer will be exhibited at GraffitiStreet X: A DECADE opening 23rd November 2024 in our brand new gallery space.
GraffitiStreet
What techniques or processes do you find most satisfying when creating abstract art in the studio compared to your detailed and highly intricate work?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
Abstract work allows me more freedom and spontaneity. There’s a satisfaction in letting go of control and letting the piece evolve naturally, almost as if it’s guiding me. This fluidity contrasts with my detailed work, where every line is predetermined. With abstract pieces, the process is more about feeling and flow underpinned with intention, which I find really satisfying and meditative.
Depths of Dusk. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
GraffitiStreet
How do you navigate the balance between spontaneity and intentionality in your process of creating abstract art?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
I like to start with a general feeling or colour palette in mind, but I let the work guide me as I go along. It’s a balance of intuition and intention. I have certain techniques and forms I return to, but I try to stay open to the unexpected. Often, the best parts of a piece come from those unplanned, spontaneous moments that add energy and emotion.
Echoes of Dawn. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
GraffitiStreet
How does your background or personal experiences influence your approach to abstract art? Can you describe a specific moment or experience that inspired a particular abstract piece in your recent body of work?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
Most of my paintings are inspired by intense moments of self-reflection and heightened awareness. I find these states come to me most when spending time in nature, but are also achieved through psyche, dreams, intense experiences, and various forms of meditation. Moments like sunsets and sunrises, where light and reflections feel surreal; mist, wind, shadows, and shifting light—all these capture that dream-like quality I want to convey. Experiences like these remind me of the depth and beauty in simple things, and I try to bring that feeling into my art.
Eclipse of Terra, 2024. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
GraffitiStreet
Are there any particular artists that have influenced your passion for abstract art?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
I wouldn’t pinpoint one artist, but rather am inspired by the many who explore the boundaries between realism and abstraction. It’s incredible how powerful abstraction can be in conveying emotion and atmosphere without the need for literal representation.
Veil of Serenity. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
GraffitiStreet
What do you hope viewers take away from experiencing your purely abstract murals, especially those who may have been familiar with your previous animal-focused murals?
Sonny ‘Sundancer’
I hope my work helps people feel a deeper connection to themselves. For me, nature has always been a powerful way to access that connection, which is why I’ve focused so much on connecting people to nature—so they can understand its importance to us and feel inspired to protect it and everything within it.
Corpus Christie, Wanderer. Image copyright Sonny Sundancer
As we wrap up this insightful conversation with Sonny, it’s clear that his artistic journey is one defined by a deep connection to both nature and the human experience. His transition into abstract art represents not just a stylistic shift, but a profound exploration of emotions and the layers of our existence.
We’re excited to witness how he continues to blend the beauty of the natural world with the complexities of inner reflection. Thank you, Sonny, for sharing your creative vision and reminding us all of the importance of connecting with ourselves and the environment around us.