The most riveting graffiti spots are those we almost never discover on our own. Located in tunnels, abandoned buildings, rooftops and hidden passageways, they tend to host some of the most creative, innovative writing — from tags to pieces — to be found anywhere. We recently had the opportunity to visit such a spot — the SGK Pit — in Newark, New Jersey and speak to Torch Fuego who has established an office there.
Can you tell us something about this spot! What an amazing oasis of creativity and escape from it all!
It was founded over 25 years ago by several Old School writers, and it quickly became — largely under the direction of SGK crew founder Syko — a key spot for writers to practice and learn from one another.
And what does SGK stand for?
Style, Gifted, Knowledge…and more!
Who were some of the writers who frequented it? Were they all locals?
Among the NJ writers were: Syko, Rime, Carmelo “Snow” Sigona, Teck and Lesk — who made me an SGK member. But folks also came from other places. Bom5 used to come down from the Bronx.
How and when did you discover the SGK Pit? And what was your first impression of it?
Baye took me there when I was about 15. I thought, “Wow!.” I couldn’t imagine that such a place existed.
Do any particular memories stand out?
The few graffiti battles that turned into brawls…lots of parties…and the first time I saw the deer and red foxes that also call this spot home.
And just what is your role here now?
For several years it had been abandoned. But it has recently been revitalized. And — together with Zew — I basically maintain it. I keep it tidy. I make sure the walls are clean. I introduce new members to old heads, who can pass down knowledge to them. Basically, I want to maintain it as a “practice sanctuary.” And as Syko handed down the torch to me, I feel a huge responsibility.
That seems like quite a responsibility and quite a bit of work!
Yes! I’ve sacrificed my day job for this. But it’s worth it!
No doubt!
Note: You can meet Torch at a special event today — Saturday — from 1-6 pm at Shorty’s. And tonight — starting at 11pm — Clearport Events will host a graffiti after-party at Port-O-Lounge, 286 1st Street in Jersey City, to benefit The Artchitectz, a program that teaches youth creative skills. Check out Torch’s Instagram for additional info.
Photo credits: 1, 3 & 4 Lois Stavsky; 2 & 5 Tara Murray; photo two features work by Lesk, with Erizl to his left; interview conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky
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Hey guys, I am a local Newark Ironbound resident looking to connect with local artist on a Residential project.
Reach out to discuss.
Thanks!!