RETNA (Marquis Duriel Lewis) was born in Los Angeles in 1979. He first began participating in the graffiti and mural art scene during high school. He is known for his text-based style. His uniquely developed script is derived from a number of traditions including Blackletter, Egyptian Hieroglyphs, Arabic, Hebrew, and traditional graffiti. RETNA indicates that he strives for a universal visual language that would be resonate with many different people. In his work he uses a combination of spray cans and brushes (to achieve a more defined line) and explores the line between 'fine art' and 'graffiti' and all the ensuing power dynamics that come with those broad distinctions. RETNA currently lives and works in Los Angeles.