Exhibits

Speaking with Bisco Smith

August 25, 2013

Currently based in both LA and NYC, Bisco Smith is celebrated for his graffiti on walls, as well as for his audio and visual work within hip-hop culture. WORLD UPSIDE DOWN, a recent collection of this talented artist’s works, is on view at Low Brow Artique, 143 Central Avenue in Bushwick, through September 7^th. We spoke with Bisco soon after his hugely successful opening:

When and why did you start getting up?

I was about 12 or 13 years old when I started writing.

Any particular inspirations at the time?

I grew up skateboarding, and we were all into writing. Just about everyone in my school had a black book. We also avidly followed Chino’s Graf Flix section in the Source. This was sometime in the mid-90’s.

What was your preferred surface – back then?

Abandoned buildings. I grew up spending day after day inside of a huge dead factory. We could paint anything and everything in there.

Any early graffiti memories that stand out?

The first time I got taken down to the train tracks, a party got broken up by the police and on our escape, we ended up under a bridge filled with burners.

What is the riskiest thing you ever did?

Train tunnels and some less-than-solid rooftops. I remember getting caught between two trains, coming on opposite sides, while I was standing between two third rails. That experience will make you appreciate life all over again.

Why were you willing to take that risk?

I ask myself the same question now.

What percentage of your time is devoted to art these days?

Just about all of it. Both visual arts and music.

Do you have a day job? What is the main source of your income these days?

I work as a graphic designer and I mentor kids. I have a strong moral compass, and just about 98% of the work that I do is for the right cause. I’m involved with various community-based organizations including ARTS By the People, based in New York and New Jersey.

Have you any thoughts about the graffiti/street art divide?

Graffiti has a code, street rules, that “street art” doesn’t have – and that’s one of the reasons for the tensions between the two. But I don’t think there’s enough respect on either side.

How do you feel about the movement of graffiti and street art into galleries?

I think it’s great when people can make a living doing what they love – and also impact others.

Would you rather work alone or collaborate with others?

When I’m working on walls, I prefer to collaborate. More often than not, I paint with my friends and crew mates: Leias, Bishop203 or Meres

Is there anyone in particular with whom you would like to collaborate?

Jackson Pollock – if he were alive.

Any favorite graff artists?

Ces. Since Videograf 8 dropped, that whole 90’s era in the Bronx really was my favorite.

Do you have a formal art education?

Yes. I studied communication design at Pratt.

Was it worthwhile?

Very much so. It taught me a trade. There’s work in graphic design.

How do you feel about the role of the Internet in all this?

Both positive and negative. I love the connections and opportunities, but miss when style was localized

What inspires you these days?

Lately, I have been heavy on instagram and tumblr checking out other artists, working artists.

Are there any particular cultures that have influenced your aesthetic?

Hip-hop culture for sure.

Do you work with a sketch-in-hand or just let it flow?

I let it flow.

Are you generally satisfied with your finished piece?

For the most part, but in the end — for me — it’s more about the day and the moment. The end result is a bonus.

How has your work evolved through the years?

Although I continue to work on the streets, I no longer need its framework to create. I think my artwork is more focused these days – especially if I know it’s headed to a gallery.

What do you see as the role of the artist in society?

Balance out the mundane, as well as make people think.

What about the role of the photographer? The blogger?

It is important to document what’s out there and happening. I think its essential to any movement.

Any thoughts about sanctioned vs. unsanctioned art?

I like them both. I think both are needed and both allow for their own outcomes and impacts.

The Europeans seem to appreciate and respect graffiti far more than we do here in the States? Any thoughts about that?

If it doesn’t make money here, society seems to not appreciate it.

What’s ahead?

More visual explorations, socially engaged work, and gallery exhibits.

Interview by Lois Stavsky. Photos: 1. Bisco on exterior of Low Brow Artique, photo by Lois Stavsky; 2. & 3. Bisco in WORLD UPSIDE DOWN, photos courtesy of the artist; 4. Bisco, Meres, Bishop203 & Leias at 5Pointz, photo by Lois Stavsky; 5. Bisco & Leias on exterior of Low Brow Artique, photo by Tara Murray and 6. Bisco in Watts, photo courtesy of the artist

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Royce Bannon on Curating, SPECTRUM, and Gallery Brooklyn

August 13, 2013

One of NYC’s most prolific street artists, Royce Bannon aka Choice Royce is also a first-rate curator. His most recent venture, SPECTRUM, is on view at Gallery Brooklyn through August 31.

Your iconic monsters surface throughout the boroughs – both on the streets and in galleries – and you also have curated some of NYC’s most impressive street art shows. What got you into curating?

Back in 2005, my sister and her husband ran a gallery space in Harlem. I loved the idea of organizing an exhibit that would showcase my friends’ work. And since I had access to a space, I did just that.

Who were some of the artists in your first exhibit?

They were mostly members of my crew, the Endless Love Crew. Guys like Abe Lincoln, Jr., Infinity, GoreB, Anera…

I remember seeing Work to Do at 112 Greene Street a few years back in SoHo. It was amazing! How did it come to be?

In 2009, Steve Loeb and John Robie offered me their 4000 square foot studio space to curate an exhibit. With help from my friends, we organized an exhibit with 50 — 60 artists. Work was installed just about everywhere in every manner possible. The response was wonderful and it whet my appetite to curate more exhibits.

What about other spaces? Where else have you curated?

I’ve curated shows at 17 Frost and at the Mishka Store in Williamsburg and at the Woodward Gallery on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. My current exhibit, SPECTRUM, is at Gallery Brooklyn here in Red Hook.

Tell us a bit about your process of curating? How does it begin?

It begins with a concept. And once I have the concept, I contact the artists I’d like to feature and, then – sometimes — I have to begin searching for a space.

What about SPECTRUM? What is the concept behind SPECTRUM?

The concept for this show was actually See One’s. He suggested that I curate an exhibit featuring abstract graffiti with works by Col, Rubin and Hellbent and him. I added EKG.

It’s certainly a great selection of artists – all five are active on the streets, as well as in their studios. How did you hook up with Gallery Brooklyn?

I began contacting various spaces and Gallery Brooklyn – that had hosted Geometrics last year — was welcoming and enthusiastic. It was the perfect match.

And the installation is flawless!

Thanks! I couldn’t be more satisfied. I wasn’t sure what to expect, and the results are beyond my expectations! The works all complement one another.

How did the opening go?

It was fantastic. The response was all positive and it sold well.

What’s ahead?

More curating. More art. More writing. And more interviews for the Source.

Have you any new concepts for exhibits?

I’d like to curate an exhibit on the theme of characters.

That sounds great! I am already looking forward to it!

Interview by Lois Stavsky; photos of EKG and Royce collab, See One, Rubin and Hellbent — in that order — by Lois Stavsky; final photo of Col courtesy of Royce.

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Speaking with Miss 163

July 24, 2013

A graduate of Cooper Union and a Fulbright scholar, Bronx native Sharon de la Cruz aka Miss 163 is a passionate artist and activist. Her first solo exhibit, Wild Thing, can be seen through August 11th at bOb’s at 235 Eldridge Street on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Her most recent public mural surfaced last month on Boone Avenue in the Bronx.

When and where did you start getting up?

I was 17 and living in Florida. Life was dull. My mom bought me my first spray can and told me I could paint a landscape on the back fence.

How did that turn out?

It was terrible. I hated the way it looked. I was instantly discouraged and started bombing.

What, then, inspired you to start painting in public spaces?

During my junior year in college, I went to Amsterdam. I saw amazing — different — graff there, and I began to think of graffiti as art.

It seems that Europeans, in general, tend to respect graffiti as an art form far more than we do here in the States. Why do you suppose this is so?

Here — from early on — it was regarded as a symbol of chaos and vandalism.

We’ve seen your artwork in Brooklyn, in the Bronx and at 5Pointz. Where else have you gotten up?

I’ve painted all over Lima, Peru.

Did you paint alone in Lima or were you with a crew?

I painted with Maripussy Crew. There were six of us – five graffiti artists and one rapper. It was wonderful!

What is the riskiest thing you’ve done?

Painting way up high in Lima while standing on a rickety, wobbling ladder. It was not a good feeling!

Do you prefer to work on legal walls or on unsanctioned spaces?

I try to achieve a balance. It depends on the setting. But legal walls don’t have to be done in a rush and in the dark. And that’s an advantage.

Any thoughts about the movement of street art and graffiti into galleries?

It’s a different experience than painting on the streets. But I’d expect it to feel different. And that’s okay!

You designed a limited edition perfume bottle for Calvin Klein’s CK One Shock Street Edition For Her. How do you feel about the merchandizing or branding of graffiti?

It’s okay. In the past, it helped me pay off loans.

What percentage of your time is devoted to art?

When I’m not doing it, I’m thinking about it.

Any thoughts about the graffiti/street art divide?

I think it’s silly. And as graffiti continues to evolve, the lines between the two continue to blur.

Why do you suppose the “art world” remains reluctant to accept graffiti as a legitimate art form?

Because it’s participatory, political and immediate, it is seen as a threat.

How do you feel about the role of the Internet in all of this?

I love it. One of my early inspirations was the Art Crimes web site.

Have you a formal art education?

Yes, I studied at LaGuardia High School, Dreyfoos School of The Arts and at Cooper Union.

Was your formal art education useful?

Absolutely. It encouraged me to evolve and explore. There’s nothing like being around people who believe in you and feel excited about what you are doing.

What inspires you these days?

I’m inspired by animation, cartoon characters and color. In terms of themes, I’m concerned with “sister strength.” Raising and answering the question, “What does it mean to be a strong woman?”

Are there any particular cultures that have influenced your aesthetic?

Brazilian, Peruvian and Old School Graffiti

Do you work with a sketch-in-hand or just let it flow?

My basic idea comes from a sketch, and from there it flows.

Are you generally satisfied with your finished piece?

Barely. I’m never satisfied.

How has your work evolved through the years?

I’m more willing to experiment, and my artwork is more detailed.

Any favorite artists?

Among them are: Inti, Nunca, Kano, Anarkia, Miss Van and my crew, Maripussy.

What do you see as the role of the artist in society?

A main role is to highlight issues and create a space for solutions.

Interview and final photo by Lois Stavsky; all other photos courtesy of the artist.

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The Girls Up on Boone Avenue: UK Girls on Top (G.O.T) Join Local Writers for “My Thuggy Pony All-Girlz Jam”

June 26, 2013

Last month, Girls on Top aka GOT, UK’s all female crew established in 2000, visited NYC. Along with some of NYC’s finest female graffiti artists, they hit up a huge wall on Boone Avenue in the Bronx on one of the rainiest days of the season. Here are some images captured this past week from the historic My Thuggy Pony All-Girlz Jam.

Manchester-based graffiti artist and educator Chock and founder of G.O.T

London-based active G.O.T. member Pixie

Bronx-based artist, educator and leader Miss 163

Queens-native visual artist Abby — with 1980’s graffiti roots

Passionate Bronx-based graffiti artist and jam facilitator Erotica 67

NYC-based designer and graffiti writer extraordinaire, Queen Andrea

And Neks

A range of art works by members of G.O.T can be seen and purchased through this weekend at an exhibit curated by Jessica Pabon at bOb Gallery at 235 Eldridge Street on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Here are two of the many on view:

Syrup

Lyns, Da Crew, 2013

Photos by Lois Stavsky

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Bortusk Leer Brings his Lovable Monsters to NYC

June 19, 2013

NYC became a bit more colorful and joyful these past few weeks, as Bortusk Leer’s lovable monsters found their way here — both on the streets and at CULTUREfix on Manhattan’s Lower East Side.

When did you first start getting your artworks up in public spaces? And where?

In 2006 in London.

What inspired you at the time?

I was working at the Leonard Street Gallery, where I became friendly with lots of street artists. And both Sweet Toof and Cyclops said to me, “Why don’t you just put your work out on the streets?” And so I did. I began stenciling pigeons onto newspaper and cardboard and stuck them up. The monsters came somewhat later.

Your monsters are quite joyful!

Yes. I was seeking an antidote to all the negative images that I passed daily on the streets. I wanted to get something out there that would cheer folks up.

What percentage of your time is devoted to art these days?

Most of it. Between commissions and art sales, I’ve been earning enough money to be a full-time artist.

Have you a formal art education?

Yes. I studied art in a formal setting for six years. First at Canterbury Tech and then at the Falmouth College of Arts.

Any thoughts about the move of street art into galleries?

In my case, I was exhibiting artwork in galleries long before I shared it on the streets. It’s a different experience. I certainly don’t have a problem with street artists selling their work in galleries.

Any favorite cities?

Amsterdam – where I’m based these days. It has everything a big city has – without its madness.

How has your work evolved in recent years?

It’s become more stylized. I’m actually trying to loosen up a bit.

Are you generally satisfied with your finished piece?

Generally, yes!

How would you describe your ideal work environment?

Lots of music, space and light!

What inspires you these days?

Everything! I can’t stop drawing.

Are these any particular cultures that have influenced your aesthetic?

I love the primitiveness of ancient cultures. And I’ve also been influenced by cartoons!

Any favorite artists?

I love Picasso. And I’ve been particularly inspired by the members of the CoBrA Movement and the works of one of its founders, the Dutch painter, Karel Appel.

How do you feel about the role of the Internet in all this?

It’s a good tool for networking and a great way to find out what’s happening.

Any thoughts about the graffiti/street art divide? Is it apparent to you?

There is a divide, but it doesn’t really affect me. Graffiti, I feel, demands greater technical expertise. And I can understand why graffiti writers might resent street artists who gain acceptance more easily. But I do feel that both forms will eventually merge into one.

What do you see as the role of the artist in society?

Many roles! But mine is to cheer people up.

Bortusk Leer’s lovable monsters remain on exhibit at CULTUREfix through Sunday.

Photos by Tara Murray and Lois Stavsky

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Stay High 149 Memorial Show at White Rabbit

June 8, 2013

A visual ode to the late Wayne Roberts aka the legendary Stay High can be seen for the next four days at White Rabbit on East Houston Street. Presented by James Top Productions and Frank 151, The Stay High Memorial Show brings together an extraordinary array of artists from Stay High’s contemporaries to those for whom he paved the way.

Here are a few more images:

Duro

Slone

The Royal Kingbee, close-up

Flint 707

Portrait of Stay High by Danielle Mastrion; photos by Daniel Mozeson and Lois Stavsky

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Crasty and his Characters on NYC Streets and at NBKC

May 31, 2013

Crasty is just about everywhere here in NYC — from the footpath of the Williamsburg Bridge to way up high in Bed-Stuy. And — along with his variations — he can be found fashioned onto stickers throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. We recently caught up with him at the North Brooklyn Collective aka NBKC at 121 Knickerbocker Ave., where he’s been busy at work.

When did you first hit the streets?

Back in 2000, when I was eighteen.

Have you any preferred surfaces?

I love getting up everywhere and anywhere.

We see your characters everywhere. What keeps you so active on the streets?

I love getting up. I want to see my characters everywhere, and I feel I have a duty to keep graffiti alive.

Much of what you do is illegal. Have you ever been arrested?

Yes, a couple of times. But I’ve learned how to run fast.

Do you prefer working legally or illegally?

I enjoy both, but there is more fun and satisfaction from doing it illegally.

What percentage of your time is devoted to the streets?

I can’t measure it in hours. It’s my life style.

What was the riskiest thing you ever did?

Getting up on elevated trains as they were going by.

And why were you willing to take that risk?

The sense of adventure.

How does your family feel about what you are doing?

My mother worries.

How do you feel about graffiti and street art moving into galleries and commercial spaces?

It’s good. It gives me an opportunity to earn money from my art. And artists need to make money to do what they do.

Where have you exhibited?

I showed my work in Bed-Stuy at the Meat Market. I also exhibited along with Sucklord and Kosby in Chinatown. And I’m now here at the NBKC.

Any thoughts on the street art/graffiti divide?

I appreciate them both. I have somewhat of a preference for graffiti, but I see my work as blurring the line between both.

We see your stickers everywhere. Have you any favorite sticker artists?

Kosby, MQ, Kech, OC, Ader, Baser, Desa, 23145 and Pez from the coast.

Do you prefer working alone or collaborating with others?

I usually work alone, but I love collaborating with artists I like.

How do you feel about the role of the Internet in all of this?

It’s good and bad. It’s good because it allows people to see fresh graffiti. But it’s bad because it can make somebody famous who doesn’t get up much, and it encourages snitches.

What are some of the sites you follow?

I follow different tumblrs, 12oz Prophet, Fresh Paint and StreetArtNYC.

How has your work evolved through the years?

I began with one character and added three more. So there’s Crasty, Kami-kun, Money Cloud, and Joint-Kun. And my skills get better all the time.

What are some of your other interests?

Hip hop music. I’m a big fan of Big L, A Tribe Called Quest, Pro Era, Biggie, Smif-N-Wessun, J-Dilla, Wu-Tang and J-Billion. I love taking photos and making zines and videos.

What’s ahead?

More Crasty on the streets. Crasty toys and Crasty jewelry.

That sounds great! Good luck!

You can check out Crasty’s work, along with art by Vato, Kosby, Tone Tank, Wizard Skull and Trice this weekend at BBKC at 121 Knickerbocker Avenue in Bushwick, alongside other openings in conjunction with Bushwick Open Studios. You can soon find more of Crasty’s work here and over at Making Deals. And Crasty sticker packs will be available for purchase this weekend.

Photos by Dani Mozeson and Lois Stavsky

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Hellbent at Mighty Tanaka and on NYC Streets

May 22, 2013

Hellbent’s artworks — from his signature jawbone to his geometric abstracts – are among our favorites, both on the streets and in gallery settings. His current solo exhibit, Even Romantics Love Violence, at Mighty Tanaka, along with recent works that have surfaced on NYC streets, reflects his skillful use of colors and patterns.

Son of a Gun (The Vaselines), Spray Paint on Canvas — in Even Romantics Love Violence at Mighty Tanaka

Hellbent’s sculpted signature jawbone in Even Romantics Love Violence at Mighty Tanaka

Benediction (Thurston Moore), 2013, Spray Paint on Raw Linen — in Even Romantics Love Violence at Mighty Tanaka

Treasure Hunters (Calvin Love) 2013, Spray Paint on Panel — in Even Romantics Love Violence at Mighty Tanaka

And on the streets — at the Bushwick Collective with See One

On Bushwick door

And on the Bowery for New Museum’s Ideas City Festival

Keep posted to our Facebook page for images of Hellbent’s newest work to grace the walls of Prospect Heights, Brooklyn.

Photos by Tara Murray and Lois Stavsky

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Gorey and Paris’s PAL Crew on Lower East Side Streets and at Klughaus with Sunday Closing Party

May 17, 2013

The French NYC-based artist GOREY and Paris’s prolific PAL Crew, consisting of HORFE, CONY, TOMEK, SAEYO, MOSA, ESSO and SKUB, have brought their expressive aesthetic to the streets of the Lower East Side and to Klughaus’s pop-up location at 154 Stanton Street. A closing reception for the exhibit PALINGENESIS — that showcases the artists’ rebirth as evolving fine artists — will be held this Sunday, May 19 from 2-6pm.

On the streets — at Suffolk and Stanton

Close-up from huge mural on Attorney and Delancey

Gorey in the gallery

Photos from the streets by Lois Stavsky; image of Gorey in the gallery courtesy of Klughaus

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JR and José Parlá at Bryce Wolkowitz and on Chelsea Wall

May 13, 2013

We love JR and José Parlá’s The Wrinkles of the City, Havana not only for its exquisite beauty, but also for the artists’ mission. While in Cuba last year, JR and José Parlá’ interviewed dozens of senior citizens, whose portraits made their way onto Havana’s walls. Twelve of them featuring JR’s masterful photos fused with José Parlá’s stunning calligraphy can be seen through July 12 at Bryce Wolkowitz in Chelsea. Here are a few from this must-see exhibit:

Man with Can