At the heart of the Shangrila Festival, I met Axel, a Gabber with a striking appearance – a shaved head and bold piercings. But beyond his exterior, Axel embodies the essence of Gabber culture.

In my close-up oil painting, Axel's piercing gaze draws you in. He challenges preconceptions about Gabbers, inviting you to see beyond the surface. His custom "Happy Hardcore" bomber jacket is a symbol of the music that unites Gabbers and their unapologetic pride.

This portrait celebrates Axel and the Gabber spirit, reminding us that appearances can be deceiving. Within every subculture, there's a unique story waiting to be discovered.