John Kiss, born Johnathan Kis-Lev in 1985 to Russian Jewish immigrants, grew up in the scenic village of Mishmar Ayalon on the outskirts of Jerusalem. From an early age, Kiss was drawn to the power of art and literature, believing in their ability to bring people together. At 16, Kiss was granted a Visual Arts scholarship that took the aspiring artist on an educational journey to Pearson College in British Columbia. After two years of artistic exploration in Canada, Kiss returned to Israel and completed studies in art and psychology at the Open University of Israel.

Kiss’s work as a street artist is fueled by a commitment to peace and social change. Murals like “The 27 Club” and “The Peace Kids” bring messages of unity and resilience to the streets of Tel Aviv, sparking reflection on the importance of empathy in a divided world. The artist’s work has been showcased in solo exhibitions across Israel and the United States, continuing to inspire and challenge audiences.

In addition to artistic work, Kiss has authored several books that delve into the complex histories and unlikely connections formed during World War II. Novels such as “Dear Tolstoy, Yours Gandhi” (2017) and “The Two Marias” (2020) reflect Kiss’s interest in exploring resilience and the ties that bridge diverse lives. The author’s latest work, “Under The Floorboards,” released in September 2024, continues this exploration with a focus on quiet acts of courage in unexpected places.

Now based in Los Angeles, California, Kiss continues to balance a passion for visual art and storytelling, often drawing on both in creative endeavors.