By: Sarah Lunes
Gabriel da Rocha Mallet, a young artist born in 2000 in the city of São Paulo, is amidst an impressive and unprecedented artistic journey. His multifaceted project, titled “Astro,” delves into the depths of his identity and creativity, exploring themes of self-discovery, expression, and transformation.
Gabriel’s story is one of resilience, shaped by challenges and responsibilities from a young age. Growing up in an environment marked by family difficulties, he matured quickly, taking care of his newborn sister at the age of 9, assuming household responsibilities when his parents divorced, and facing family upheaval at the age of 14. At 16, he made the difficult decision to leave his home due to constant abuse from his stepfather, stemming from his sexual orientation. Although it was a tough choice, Gabriel opted to return to the place where he always found comfort and safety: his grandmother’s embrace.
His childhood was filled with responsibilities most children do not have to contend with, but these experiences shaped his journey and worldview.
However, his story is not solely about struggles and challenges. It’s about the discovery of his identity as an artist, a process that led him to create the intriguing persona known as “Astro.” Astro transcends the boundaries of masculinity and femininity, inhabiting a star and challenging human perspective. He is an organic and technological blend, a figure that travels between planets and contributes to the creation of new ones.
Gabriel wants people to see the world through his eyes without it becoming a political issue. His life has turned into his greatest form of art, a constantly evolving film. His public appearances, his way of dressing, and his self-expression are all part of this cinematic narrative that he shares with the world.
The “Astro” project unfolds across various social media platforms, each contributing to the global narrative. On Instagram, Gabriel shares his personal journey as an artist, while Astro focuses on his appearances and work. On YouTube, cinematic-style videos explore Gabriel’s thoughts and ideas on various subjects, often influenced by Astro’s perspective. On TikTok, a platform he hesitates to embrace, Gabriel shares his content while Astro watches with a touch of humor.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the project is Gabriel’s performance, in which he tattoos a star on his own chest with a scalpel. The performance is a visceral expression of his quest for authenticity and the truth of his identity.
The culmination of the project is the “Act of Rebirth” that took place in Iceland. This act symbolized Astro’s arrival on Earth, temporarily merging with Gabriel and creating a visually stunning metaphor for Gabriel’s journey as an artist. It was a moment of transformation and renewal.
“‘Astro’ is not just about an individual seeking their identity; it’s about creating a new form of artistic expression, a fusion of identities, and an ever-evolving narrative, challenging conventions and provoking deep reflections on the meaning of authenticity and creativity in an ever-changing world. It’s a journey that we can all follow and draw inspiration from for our own lives,” said Gabriel about the project.
Gabriel da Rocha Mallet’s “Astro” project is a testament to the power of art and self-expression in transcending adversity and redefining one’s identity. As he continues to evolve and push boundaries, his story serves as an inspiration to many who are on their own journey of self-discovery and creative exploration.
