about alexander lis

born in 1983, alexander lis, known as “eoc” (element of colors), is an artist based in frankfurt am main, germany. his work transforms urban art and graffiti into minimalist compositions, blending vibrant colors with a sense of calm and balance.

with over 25 years of experience, alexander’s artistic journey evolved from graffiti to a refined practice rooted in gestural abstraction and urban aesthetics. his work explores the interplay between chaos and structure, creating timeless artworks that invite reflection and transform spaces.

career highlights

alexander lis studied communication design at darmstadt university of applied sciences, completing his degree in 2009. during his studies, he expanded his expertise at vorarlberg university of applied sciences in austria, focusing on media design. after graduating, he worked as a freelance designer in cities like london, berlin, and amsterdam, where he honed his craft across diverse creative environments.

in 2013, he co-founded the design and branding agency dbf.design with katja lis. this venture combines his passion for strategic brand development with his artistic vision, bridging the disciplines of design and strategic.

artistic philosophy

alexander lis’s work bridges urban art and graphic design, blending bold colors, geometric shapes, and layered compositions into a harmonious visual language. working under the name “eoc” (element of colors), he draws inspiration from his roots in graffiti and his extensive experience in graphic design.

his practice balances structure and spontaneity, combining vibrant marks and expressive traces with precise composition. through painting, drawing, and mixed media, alexander creates works that evoke harmony and visual tension, transforming spaces into immersive, reflective experiences.

exhibitions (selection)

open doors, atelier frankfurt, frankfurt (2023, 2024)
illustrative, zurich (2009)
neue freunde, mainz (2009)
youth art biennale, plauen/zwickau (2004–2006)
fourfiveX “my art is better”, frankfurt (2009)

projects and initiatives

alexander has spearheaded several significant creative projects, including:

after school club (2012, 2013) at hfg offenbach with eike könig
self-publishing book fair (2011, 2012), a platform for independent publishing
fourfiveX (2006–2016), a research project exploring experimental design and art

awards

alexander’s innovative work has been recognized with numerous awards:

german design award (winner, special mention, newcomer finalist 2012)
european design award (3x)
adc gold new york
d&ad award
100 best posters germany
output award

teaching and lectures

alexander is also an experienced lecturer and workshop leader, having taught at institutions such as:

hfg karlsruhe, hfg offenbach, and muthesius kunsthochschule kiel
burg giebichenstein kunsthochschule halle
technical university nuremberg georg simon ohm
hochschule darmstadt

internationally, he has shared his expertise in countries such as the uk, sweden, and the netherlands.