From Street Art to Corporate Commissions: Stade Artist Makes Living with Professional Graffiti Work

Sayart / Nov 4, 2025

Many people are surprised to learn that graffiti can actually provide a steady income, but for Leonard Cordes from Stade, Germany, this has become his reality. The talented street artist has successfully transformed his passion for spray painting into a thriving professional career, landing major contracts with corporations like Amazon and the regional railway company EVB.

Cordes' work has gained significant visibility through various high-profile projects throughout the region. One of his most notable recent works features a colorful motif created as part of an EVB marketing campaign displayed between the towns of Heeslingen and Zeven. The vibrant artwork showcases his ability to blend artistic creativity with commercial appeal, demonstrating how street art techniques can be effectively applied to corporate branding initiatives.

The transformation of graffiti from an underground art form to a legitimate business venture reflects broader changes in how companies approach marketing and public engagement. Cordes represents a growing number of artists who have successfully bridged the gap between street culture and mainstream commercial applications, proving that unconventional artistic backgrounds can lead to sustainable professional opportunities.

His success story challenges traditional perceptions about graffiti and street art, showing how skills developed in urban artistic communities can translate into valuable commercial services. By working with major companies like Amazon and regional transportation authorities, Cordes has established himself as a professional artist who brings authentic street credibility to corporate projects while maintaining his artistic integrity.

Sayart

Sayart

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