Art That Stops You in Your Tracks

I spotted this incredible piece on my way to the gym this morning — and had to stop and take it in. What you’re looking at isn’t vandalism, but art. It’s the work of Simon Berger, a contemporary Swiss artist who’s gained global attention for his truly unique approach: he "paints" portraits by cracking glass.

Using a hammer, Berger taps and fractures safety glass with surgical precision, creating haunting, detailed faces that emerge from thousands of splintered lines. What I love about it is the rawness. It’s controlled chaos — a perfect balance between destruction and creation. As someone who appreciates physicality, discipline, and creativity, this style really resonates with me. It’s bold, deliberate, and a little rebellious.

Simon Berger was born in 1976 and lives and works in Switzerland. His work has been exhibited across Europe and the US, and he’s fast becoming one of the most exciting artists in modern portraiture.

If you’re curious to see more, visit his website at www.simonberger.art or follow him on Instagram @simonberger.art — his process videos are especially fascinating.

Let me know what you think — I’d love to hear your reactions.