Exhibits

From the West Coast to the East Village at 212 Arts with: Free Humanity, Eddie Colla, Mike Giant, Sket One, Max Neutra, Bisco Smith and more

April 19, 2016

From the plaintive to the playful, the artworks on exhibit in From the West Coast at 212 Arts intrigue. While visiting last week, I had the opportunity to speak to gallerist Mark Leader, who curated the exhibit:

Many of these artists are new to me. Just what is going on here?

This exhibit is a survey of various West Coast artists — largely from LA, San Francisco, Santa Monica and New Mexico.

There is certainly quite a diverse range of styles represented here. What spurred you to bring these artists to NYC?

It was an opportunity to introduce a brand new visual language to others. My sense is that the West Coast sensibility is quite different from ours.

How did you first discover these artists?

Largely through Instagram. And I had worked with some of them before.

Were there any particular challenges in making this happen?

Just the logistics of transporting the art from the West Coast to here in the East Village.

How have folks responded to the exhibit?

They’ve responded positively with lots of curiosity!

How can folks see the exhibit?

As there has been a pique of interest in the exhibit since these works were initially showcased, there will be a second launch this Thursday, April 21, beginning at 6 pm.

And what’s next for 212 Arts?

Opening May 6 is Round Trip, Emilio Ramos‘s first solo exhibit.

Interview and photos 1, 2, 4-6 Lois Stavsky

Images:

1. Free Humanity

2. Eddie Colla

3. Mike Giant

4. Sket One — on platform designed by Tracy 168, with Marc Leader on right

5. Max Neutra

6. Bisco Smith

Note: Hailed in a range of media from the Huffington Post to the New York Times, our Street Art NYC App is now available here for Android devices.

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The Art of a Political Revolution Continues Through 7:00 PM Today at 312 Bowery with: Greg Auerbach, Brian Blue, Claw Money, Rostarr, Patrick Martinez, Dan Buller and more

April 18, 2016

Featuring dozens of national and local artists whose work is inspired by the political landscape, the Artists for Bernie Sanders national touring exhibit, The Art of a Political Revolution, continues through 7:00 PM this evening at 312 Bowery. While visiting yesterday, I had the opportunity to speak to its principal curator, Tyler Gibney of HVW8 Gallery.

There is such a wonderful range of socially conscious art on exhibit here. While some of the artworks directly reference Bernie Sanders, others touch on an array of social, political and economic issues. How did this all happen?

Bernie Sanders has always been a strong supporter of the arts. And soon after he appointed Luis Calderin — with whom I’ve worked in the past — as Director of Arts and Culture, Luis and I started working on launching this exhibit.

How were you able to engage such a diverse group of outstanding artists — many working in different media?

Both Luis and I had worked with many of the same artists when Obama was first running for President. Several of these artists have also shown in my gallery. And in addition to the artists we both knew, many approached us — eager to participate.

So many artists — of all ages — are supportive of Bernie. Why do you suppose this is so?

Bernie can be counted on to advocate for funding of the arts in our cities, schools and public spaces. He clearly understands the importance of the arts and has a proven record of supporting the arts. Artists can also easily relate to his values. Bernie takes no corporate donations.

And how might you explain his appeal to so many young people?

Many young people are feeling the need for a political revolution in this country. They graduate school with thousands of dollars in debt. They witness a gross inequality of income. They see homeless people living on the streets in the richest country in the world. And with Bernie these issues come into the open.

How did the opening of this exhibit here in NYC go?

It was amazing! We knew that Bernie’s wife and son would be here. But we didn’t quite expect him. He’d just been visiting the Vatican hours earlier! And so when he arrived, we were thrilled!

And are you satisfied with the response the exhibit is getting here in NYC!

Absolutely!

The Art of A Political Revolution — produced by Bernie 2016, with support from HVW8 Gallery, Creative Cabal, The GoodLife! & Evolutionary Media Group — is open to the public today from 10:30am – 7pm.

Artist signings: Aaron Draplin from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM; Jermaine Rogers from 1:00 – 3:00 PM and Claw Money from 3:00 – 5:00 PM

Photos by Lois Stavsky; interview conducted by Lois Stavsky with Houda Lazrak and edited by Lois Stavsky

Images

1. Greg Auerbach

2. Brian Blue

3. Claw Money

4. Rostarr & Patrick Martinez

5. Dan Buller

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BK Foxx on Her Solo Exhibit Kingdom at Woodward Gallery

April 10, 2016

BK Foxx — whose works continue to delight us when they surface on our streets — has brought a hugely impressive Kingdom to Woodward Gallery, transforming one of our favorite Lower East Side spaces into an animal sanctuary. After viewing BK’s exhibit last week, I had the opportunity to pose a few questions to her:

What an impressive exhibit! What inspired you to focus your first solo exhibit on the animal kingdom?

I’ve always loved animals. I grew up surrounded by them, and I’ve always felt a special connection to them. When I first started paintings on walls, I discovered how much I love painting animals. They are an ideal subject. I love working with their colors, shades and textures. And here — at Woodward Gallery — I was given an opportunity to create a wildlife sanctuary with artworks on a range of surfaces.

What was your greatest challenge in preparing such an extensive body of work?

For months I didn’t see much daylight. I worked non-stop in my studio! But the biggest challenge was trying to consistently meet my own standards as a painter.

Have you any particular favorites among the works here?

My favorites are the family portraits — of the people close to me posing with their pets.

How has the response been to your exhibit? Are you satisfied with it?

The response has been great. Last month’s opening was wonderful. And I continue to receive positive comments from folks who visit.

Yes! Being amidst your enchanting kingdom is quite an encompassing experience! What would you like your viewers to walk away with?

We need to think about our values. The world is not just about us. I would like those who visit Kingdom to think about the other living creatures with whom we share our planet. We have a responsibility to protect and care for them.

Kingdom remains on view through May 7. Located at 133 Eldridge Street, Woodward Gallery is open Sunday: 12:00pm-5:00pm and Tuesday-Saturday: 11:00am-6:00pm. A portion of all sales from the exhibition, as well as direct donations, benefits the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) mission to conserve nature. You can also commission the artist to paint your pet by contacting the gallery.

Images:

1. Meow III, Oil on canvas

2. Meow II, Oil on canvas

3. Dry Ice, Acrylic on linen

4. Miller, Oil on wood

5. Featherweight, Freehand spray acrylic on linen

6. Gif of huge free-hand, acrylic spray-painted 26 foot mural — from start to finish

Photo credits: 1 & 6 courtesy of Woodward Gallery; 2-5 Dani Reyes Mozeson; interview by Lois Stavsky

Note: Hailed in a range of media from the Huffington Post to the New York Times, our Street Art NYC App is now available here for Android devices.

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Chor Boogie Brings His Brilliant Visuals to Wynwood’s Macaya Gallery

March 31, 2016

While in Miami this past week, I visited Chor Boogie‘s current exhibit, Heiros Gamos: A Vision of Feminine Power, at Wynwood’s Macaya Gallery. I also had the opportunity to speak to its curator, Daniel Stanford.

I’ve been mesmerized by Chor Boogie‘s aesthetic since I first saw his vibrant murals on the streets of various cities several years ago. But I don’t often get to see his work in gallery settings. What spurred you to curate an exhibit of Chor Boogie‘s artworks?

Patrick Glémaud, Macaya Gallery‘s director, and I met Chor Boogie during Art Basel 2015. After viewing several of his artworks, Patrick felt that the Macaya Gallery would be the ideal place to showcase Chor Boogie‘s distinct aesthetic. And I was pleased to have the opportunity to curate an exhibit of his works.

What is it about Chor Boogie’s aesthetic that appeals to you?

I was taken by his level of precision and complexity. His technique is superior.

And as is evident in his murals that have surfaced in public spaces, Chor Boogie‘s choice of colors is always brilliant. His works consistently arouse both my senses and my mind. Just what is going on here?

These works — as the title suggests — reference a sacred union. The artworks pose the question, “Sacred or profane?” as they present a vision of feminine power. Aesthetic elements of the Rococo and Baroque periods, along with Madonna iconography, are reinterpreted through the medium of spray paint and contemporary street art styles.

What challenges did you face in curating this exhibit?

The works currently on display are quite diverse and also very rich. The biggest challenge was presenting a variety of distinct works in a balanced way.

You certainly seem to have achieved that! What’s ahead for Macaya Gallery?

Our next exhibit is a collective show featuring works by Emma Dunlavey, François Duerinckx and Mercedes Lasarte. A select group of Chor Boogie‘s paintings will remain, and a series of his political works will be featured later this year.

Images:

1. Chor Boogie, The King and Eye, on the exterior of Macaya Gallery

2. Chor Boogie, Immaculate Conception

3. Chor Boogie, The Silver Queens, close-up

4. E. Bast in collaboration with Chor Boogie, The Nine Virgins, close-up

5. Chor Boogie in collaboration with Daniel Stanford, The Color Visions of Raquel

Photos: 1 courtesy of Daniel Stanford; 2-4 Lois Stavsky and 5 courtesy of Chor Boogie

Note: To find out about the inspiration behind this body of work, check out Chor Boogie Shines Love Into Macaya Gallery by Alexandra Martinez in last week’s Miami New Times.

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Ex Vandals Continues at More Points Bx with Serve, Sienide, Cone, Will Power, Kool Kito and more

March 19, 2016

After visiting the superb Ex Vandals exhibit — featuring over 30 artists — at More Points Bx last week, I had the opportunity to speak to its curator, Sienide.

What prompted you to curate an exhibit featuring the Ex Vandals?

It’s my way of paying homage to the pioneering graffiti crew. It was one of the first organized crews dedicated exclusively to writing that went on to develop various styles of piecing. I am one of the newer members.

What was your greatest challenge in curating such an ambitious exhibit?

Trying to represent the spirit of the Ex Vandals by getting as many writers involved as I possibly could. The Ex Vandals is now international, but the focus here is on local writers.

There’s such an incredibly diverse range of artworks here. I was wondering how that happened. Were artists given specific instructions of assignments?

No! I just asked each artist to bring in one work on canvas.

How did the opening go?

It was great! It was definitely the most successful show I’ve done! And we sold several pieces — an added bonus to an amazing event!

How can folks see the exhibit?

It will be up through the 29th at 527 Faile Street in Hunts Point. An appointment can be arranged to view it by contacting me at sienide@gmail.com.

What’s ahead for More Points Bx?

We are booked through November with a new exhibit every month. Among those artists who will be featured are: the TMT graffiti crew and the photographer Joe Conzo. We are also planning a pop-up show featuring new works by BG 183.

Great! We are looking forward!

Special thanks to Eric Orr for hosting us at More Points Bx on short notice!

Images of artworks on exhibit:

1. Serve

2. Sienide

3. Cone

4. Will Power

5. Kool Kito

Photo credits: 1, 2 & 5 Tara Murray; 3, 4 & 6 Lois Stavsky; interview by Lois Stavsky

Note: Hailed in a range of media from the Huffington Post to the New York Times, our Street Art NYC App is now available here for Android devices.

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Joshua B. Geyer on Curating Off the Wall with: Icy & Sot, Erasmo, Case Maclaim, See One, Daze and more

March 15, 2016

Opening this evening from 6-9pm at World Trade Gallery is Off the Wall, an exhibit featuring artwork by some of our favorite artists. We recently had the opportunity to speak to its curator, Joshua B. Geyer.

What is the concept behind this exhibit?

I wanted to showcase in a gallery setting artworks by a diverse group of high-caliber artists who work in public spaces, as well as in their studios. My current job is just a few blocks away from the Top to Bottom Mural Project on 21st Street. I pass it every day, and I love it. I thought it would be a great idea to feature those artists, as they are among the best anywhere.

When did you first begin working on Off the Wall?

I first found out about the availability of the space three weeks ago. One of my friends who works in World Trade Gallery offered me the opportunity to curate an exhibit beginning in mid-March.

What was your greatest challenge in getting this together in such a short timespan?

My greatest challenge was selecting the artists. There was so much talent to choose from. Close to 50 outstanding artists have painted in the Top to Bottom Mural Project. I also wanted to take into consideration the input I was given from the team — James P Quinn and Geoff Kuffner — who implemented the project.

Do you feel that you have accomplished your mission?

Yes! The artworks in Off the Wall are representative of the diverse range of outstanding pieces that have surfaced at 43-01 21st Street in LIC since this past September. And this space couldn’t be more ideal!

We love your flyer. Did you design it?

It was a collaborative venture between See One and me. The photo is mine and the actual design is See One’s.

What’s ahead?

I’d love to build a relationship with World Trade Gallery, and I look forward to curating more exhibits featuring artists whose works are seen on our streets.

Images

1. Icy and Sot, close-up

2. Erasmo and Case Maclaim

3. See One

4. Daze

Photo credits: 1, 3 & 4 Dani Reyes Mozeson; 2 Lois Stavsky

Note: Hailed in a range of media from the Huffington Post to the New York Times, our Street Art NYC App is now available here for Android devices.

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Hoacs on No Days Off, His First Solo Exhibit, at Eden Fine Art in SoHo

March 14, 2016

Currently on view at Eden Fine Art in SoHo is No Days Off, an ingenious installation of vibrant images in a range of media by the wonderfully gifted Queens-based graffiti master Hoacs. While visiting the space this past Friday — while Hoacs was adding the final touches to No Days Off for his Saturday evening opening — I had the opportunity to speak to him.`

This is amazing! What a brilliant installation! How long have you been working on it?

I began several months ago — in mid-December.

Integrated within the huge pieces painted on the walls is a range of media here. I love the varied surfaces you’ve painted on. Can you tell us something about that?

Yes! With the exception of several canvases, everything has been painted on pieces of discarded wood that I found. I hand sanded and treated them all before painting on them. Each is distinct.

What would you say was your greatest challenge in executing the installation — as everything seems to work so well together?

My chief concern was my choice of colors. It is important to me that the individuals walls — particularly those across from one another — work well together.

This space and this neighborhood couldn’t be more perfect! How did this wonderful space come your way?

A friend of mine, the jeweler Mr. Flawless — another Queens native — knows the owner of this gallery and introduced us.

What would you say is the principal difference between working on the streets and working in an indoor space like this one?

When I paint outdoors, I am at the mercy of the elements — the cold, the heat, the rain, the winds — and I often stop what I’m doing to speak to folks who drop by. I also tend to paint with others. Here — I am in my own world!

Are you satisfied with the way it is looking?

Yes! I got to do exactly what I wanted to do!

What about the title of the exhibit, No Days Off?

Graffiti is a passion that comes with huge demands! There are “no days off” for a graffiti writer!

How can folks see the exhibit?

Eden Fine Art SoHo is s located at 470 Broome Street and is open seven days a week, 9AM to 9PM.

That’s perfect! Congratulations!

Interview by Lois Stavsky

Photo credits: 1-3, 5.-8 Lois Stavsky; 2 & 4 Tara Murray

Note: Hailed in a range of media from the Huffington Post to the New York Times, our Street Art NYC App is now available here for Android devices.

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Coney Island: Visions of an American Dreamland, 1861–2008 Continues through Sunday at the Brooklyn Museum with Swoon, Daze and more

March 7, 2016

Featuring a wondrous range of approximately 140 artworks in various media referencing the iconic Brooklyn site, Coney Island: Visions of an American Dreamland, 1861–2008 continues through March 13 at the Brooklyn Museum. Here are a few more images of works in the exhibit of special appeal to us street art aficionados:

Swoon, another close-up

Daze

Unknown

Located at 200 Eastern Parkway, the Brooklyn Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday. Check here for hours.

Photo credits: 1 Tara Murray; 2 & 4 Lois Stavsky and 3 Dani Reyes Mozeson

Note: Hailed in a range of media from the Huffington Post to the New York Times, our Street Art NYC App is now available here for Android devices.

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The West Harlem Art Fund Presents Street Art Gone Fusion Crazy for Armory Week with: Lady K Fever, Bind, Brim, Share 37, BG 183 & more

March 5, 2016

Launched and coordinated by the West Harlem Art Fund, Fusion NY presented a series of panels, tours, performances and pop-up exhibits earlier this week – Armory Week 2016 – in various venues throughout Harlem. Of special interest to us graffiti and street art aficionados were the panel discussion, Basquiat Still Fly @ 55, moderated by Jeffrey Deitch and the pop-up exhibit, Street Art Gone Fusion Crazy, curated by Lady K Fever and Savona Bailey. What follows are a few more images by artists — who also use the streets as their canvas — that we captured on our visit to Street Art Gone Fusion Crazy this past Wednesday.

Bind

Brim, Tats Cru and Share 37

BG 183

Ree

Curators Lady K Fever and Savona Bailey

First image is close-up from huge piece by Lady K Fever

Photo credits: 1-5 Dani Reyes Mozeson; 6 Lois Stavsky

Note: Hailed in a range of media from the Huffington Post to the New York Times, our Street Art NYC App is now available here for Android devices.

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Urban Reference with Lorenzo Masnah, Alex Seel and Guillermo Perez Continues through Tomorrow at 548 West 28th Street in Chelsea

March 3, 2016

On view through tomorrow at 548 West 28th Street is Urban Reference, an engaging exhibit of works in a variety of media by Lorenzo Masnah, Alex Seel and Guillermo Perez. When I visited earlier this week, I had the opportunity to speak to Lorenzo.

Just what is going on here?

When an opportunity to exhibit art in this space came our way, we decided to launch a show on the theme of urban life. It is what we know best!

There seem to be a few different motifs going on here.

Yes! Alex‘s photos were shot in Colombia’s capital city, Bogota. He spent several weeks there working on a documentary focusing on the city’s street life Highlights include: live bombing by APC members, including Stinkfish; an interview with Bogota’s legendary MC, Manny from the underground rap group, Crack Family and advice from assorted characters who dwell on the streets of Bogota.

And what about Guillermo Perez? I love his paintings.

Guillermo Perez was born in the Dominican Republic into a family of master painters. On exhibit are his small works referencing people he’s met in the urban sphere.

How did you all three meet?

A number of years back, we shared the same living space in Bushwick — before the neighborhood became so gentrified.

You are continuing your series of dancers and musicians here, along with new works with a distinct urban flair and outsider sensibility. What are your primary media?

I work with the “tools of the trade,” — Mean Streak markers and paints on a huge range of surfaces. And I find myself incorporating graffiti elements.

How did you get the word out about the exhibit — on such short notice?

Largely through Instagram and Facebook. And, of course, we let all our close friends know.

How can folks see the exhibit?

It will continue through tomorrow, Friday. We are on the third floor of 548 West 28th Street between 10th and 11th Avenues.

Note: Lorenzo can be contacted at thirdwolrdpirate@gmail.com to confirm a visit

Images:

1. Lorenzo Masnah

2. Alex Seel

3. Guillermo Perez

4. Lorenzo Masnah, close-up

Interview conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky

Photo credits: 1 Lois Stavsky; 3 Dani Reyes Mozeson & 4 courtesy of Lorenzo Masnah

Note: Hailed in a range of media from the Huffington Post to the New York Times, our Street Art NYC App is now available for Android devices here.

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