Known as Gringo, Rodolphe is an artist who merges the worlds of graffiti and coffee through his artwork. Based in Paris and Lyon, he is an Art Director and co-founder of Lyon Coffee Fest, the first specialty coffee festival in the gastronomic capital of France. With roots in graffiti since the '90s and a deep passion for specialty coffee, Gringo creates artwork full of character, expression, and a unique touch.

El Gringo | photo by Gringo doc.

In this interview, Hudes Magazine talks with Gringo about his artistic journey, how coffee influences his work, and his dreams for the future.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how your journey in both art and coffee began?

I started doing graffiti in the Paris suburbs in the '90s, mainly drawing characters. Back then, I was known as OndeOne, and by the early 2000s, my style became more simplified and minimalist. At the same time, I developed a deep passion for specialty coffee and brewing techniques. In 2022, I made a big career shift and even changed my name to Gringo to better align with my artistic vision.

Is "Gringo" your real name, or is there a story behind it?

Hahaha! No, it’s not my real name. I took it from an old French coffee commercial by Jacques Vabre from the '80s. In the ad, El Gringo was a coffee expert who traveled the world searching for the finest beans.

Which came first in your life: art or coffee? How did they eventually come together in your work?

I've always drawn, especially characters. A few years ago, I started posting Morning Sketches—quick daily illustrations reflecting my mood. Many of them featured partying, work, and, of course, coffee.

Later, I felt the need to take a step back and refresh my style. While rethinking the things I loved, the connection between illustration and coffee naturally emerged.

What is your creative process when making coffee-themed illustrations? Do you have any rituals before drawing?

Coffee is almost always by my side when I draw. Usually, I don’t overthink things. If an idea pops into my head, I immediately sketch it out so I don’t forget. From there, I can see if the concept works. If it does, I move on to inking or digital work.

Gringo art work | photo by Gringo doc.

Your characters have such unique expressions and a distinct style. What inspires your designs?

From the beginning, I chose a clean and simple style. Expressing emotions or ideas with just a few lines, simplifying as much as possible—that’s very important to me.

What’s the biggest challenge in illustrating coffee culture?

The most crucial thing in representing coffee and its world is passion.

The deeper your understanding of coffee, the better you can translate it into illustrations and have fun with it.

You have a background in graffiti. How did the transition to coffee-themed illustration happen?

I still do graffiti on walls, but not as often due to time constraints. But whenever I get the chance, I love it. Since I’ve been drawing a lot of coffee-related artwork, it’s natural for that influence to spill over into my wall paintings as well.

Do you incorporate elements from graffiti into your coffee illustrations?

Absolutely! Even creating characters out of coffee cups is, in a way, an homage to graffiti. The intentionally imperfect lines, movement strokes, bubbles, stars—all of these are elements I bring from the graffiti world.

Are there any graffiti artists or illustrators who influence your style?

I draw inspiration from many things—design, painting, typography—not just graffiti or illustration. The world around me, my mood, even jokes I hear can spark new ideas.

How do you see the connection between art and coffee culture?

For me, coffee culture—especially specialty coffee—is already an art form. The world of coffee is constantly evolving, always searching for new flavors and innovative brewing methods. Art and coffee share many similarities in their approach to exploration and creation.

How has the coffee community responded to your work? Was there a moment when you felt truly recognized in the coffee world?

The response has been very positive. I think my passion for specialty coffee shines through in my illustrations. I see my art as a tribute to coffee lovers and all things vibrant and colorful.

Have you collaborated with coffee shops or coffee brands?

I’ve worked with coffee shops for exhibitions and decor. But so far, I haven’t had the chance to collaborate with a coffee brand—something I would love to do!

Are there any projects you’re currently working on?

Right now, I’m preparing for a few exhibitions and collaborations. But my biggest focus is Lyon Coffee Fest—the first specialty coffee festival in Lyon. It’s going to be a major event for coffee enthusiasts!

If you could choose, what would be your dream project combining art and coffee?

My dream is to create my own specialty coffee brand, complete with illustrated accessories and brewing tools.

What message do you want to share with coffee lovers worldwide through your art?

Being passionate about something is a gift. When you truly love what you do, it shows—in the work you create, in the messages you convey—whether through flavors or visuals. Passion is life!