This is the eleventh in a series of occasional posts featuring the art that has surfaced on NYC shutters:
Eelco on the Lower East Side
Crash and Bio on the Lower East Side
Moody Mutz on the Lower East Side
Phetus at the Bushwick Collective
Jules Muck aka MuckRock with the Welling Court Mural Project in Astoria, Queens
Photo credits: 1, 4 & 5 Tara Murray; 2 Dani Reyes Mozeson & 3 courtesy of John Woodward
{ 0 comments }
With his outstanding sense of color, style and design, Tracy 168 achieved legendary status early on in the most significant art movement of our time. The personification of wild style and the first writer to hit the subways with cartoon characters, the prolific artist wielded tremendous influence. On reviewing Tracy 168‘s work on exhibit back in 1999, the Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times art critic Holland Cotter had the following to say: “Tracy offers an astounding variety of styles, from 3-D to space-age spiky to Cubistic. He floats out words on cushions of colors, and ties them up in unreadable knots, festooned with tendril-like flourishes.”
When did you first get up?
I first got up with a crayon on a wall in my house when I was four years old. I remember drawing a tortoise and a hare. I lived across from the Bronx Zoo, and I always heard the sounds of animals from my window.
What about the streets? When did you first hit the streets? And the trains? When did you first hit them?
In 1969 when the Mets won the World Series, I first hit the streets. And I tagged my first train the same year. I was 11.
What inspired you to do so?
I loved the sense of adventure…the adrenalin rush. I envisioned myself as a Tom Sawyer or Huckleberry Finn. And I loved seeing my name on the trains.
Had you any favorite spots?
I was all-city, and I loved painting anywhere with people whom I loved. But my favorite spots were New Lots Avenue and Utica Avenue on the IRT line in Brooklyn. Any train I painted there would run right away, and so I didn’t have to hang around too long to see my piece pass by.
What about crews? Did you get up with any crews?
I founded the Wanted crew. It was one of the largest crews ever, and just about anybody who was anybody of worth was in that crew. It represented Wild Style.
Had you any early role models or inspirations?
My mother, my grandfather, Jack Stewart, Michael Stewart… Michael Stewart gave his life so that others would live. After his death in 1983 — and the trials and investigations that ensued — the police were somewhat afraid of treating writers so brutally. We are the true prophets…
Any particular risky ventures stand out?
I was always wild, always doing dangerous things.
How did you support yourself back in the day? What was your source of income?
In the late 70’s, I began to create all kinds of art-related jobs for myself — painting storefronts, memorial walls, murals… I was the first writer to do that kind of thing. I also worked in an advertising agency. Jack Stewart taught me about copyrights and trademarks. He was a true mentor. He told me real stories — not the ones from Fantasy Island.
Your work has been shown in all kinds of settings across the globe!
Yes! I’ve been in museums and galleries all over the world. I was always breaking boundaries, Here in NYC my work has been exhibited in dozens of spaces including the New York Historical Society, the Brooklyn Museum and NYU.
I remember seeing your work at the Brooklyn Museum back in 2006.
Yeah! When I came by, I made some adjustments to my canvas with a paintbrush. That didn’t go over well with the security guards. They got the curator of the exhibit involved, who insisted that I couldn’t change anything, since it had already been photographed for their catalog.
Did you have a formal art education?
My education is hands-on.
How do you feel about the role of the Internet in this scene?
It can be used as a tool — if you know how to read the truth.
What’s your ideal working environment?
Anywhere outdoors. Even when I paint canvases, I like to paint outside.
What inspires you these days?
My main inspiration is to express myself and grow as an artist in a world that is reluctant to see me as one.
Are there any particular cultures that have influenced your aesthetic?
Every culture. NYC is a melting pot, and I’m in the center of it painting.
Are you generally satisfied with your finished piece?
I’m not done until I’m happy. As long as I’m alive, I can improve on it. But it must have meaning and exude positivity. Otherwise, why bother?
A few years back you were reported dead. What was that all about?
If I hadn’t died then, I wouldn’t be alive now. It had to happen. When I vanished, I saw the world going in the wrong direction. This art form can save it.
How has your work evolved in the last few years?
It’s constantly evolving. This movement is to art like jazz is to music. It’s a fusion of styles and cultures that knows no boundaries. It is a universal language. And the message of Wild Style is “Be yourself. Find out what your talent is and get good at it.” I love everyone, but I will not surrender the truth and lose my integrity.
Photos: 1, 6-8 Lois Stavsky; 2, 4 & 5 courtesy of the artist; 3 Flint Gennari; interview conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky
Note: Photos 7 & 8 were captured from Tracy’s current black book; special thanks to Flint for the introduction!
{ 14 comments }
Back in March, Joshua B. Geyer‘s splendidly curated exhibit introduced us to the World Trade Gallery. We recently returned as its current exhibit, Deep Calls Deep, again features some of our favorite artists. Pictured above is a recent work by the wonderfully talented and highly imaginative Michael Alan.
Also by Michael Alan
With Erasmo to his left
Located at 120 Broadway in Manhattan’s Financial District, the World Trade Gallery is open Monday – Thursday 9am-7pm; Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 11am-5pm.
Photo credits: 1, 4 & 5 Tara Murray; 2 & 3 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 for Android devices here.
{ 0 comments }
As NET was getting ready for TAGSTRACTION, tonight’s unsanctioned exhibition on the streets of NYC, I had the opportunity to speak to him and find out a bit about it all.
Just what is TAGSTRACTION?
It is a mix of tagging and abstraction, blurring the lines between graffiti tagging, abstract expressionism and stylized signatures.
And when was NET born?
NET was born in 1987, but I’ve been tagging since I was a child.
Were you ever arrested?
I was arrested about fifty times for graffiti since I was 14.
Who are some of your inspirations?
There are many: Barry McGee aka Twist, Adam Cost, Jon 156, Al Diaz, Easy, Phantom 13 aka P13, Old English, Enx, Phil Frost and multiple Brooklyn artists.
You define TAGSTRACTION as “too hood for the nerds and too weird for the thugs.” Who is your audience?
Anyone and everyone who’s on the street with eyeballs.
How can folks see tonight’s exhibit?
The location will be announced one hour prior to the 7pm opening. Check out my Instagram for it.
And why did you choose an unsanctioned outdoor location for an art exhibit? Is there a message here? You seem to be on a mission of some kind.
My message is that you do not need the approval of the Art World to accomplish your goal. It is time for us to take it into our own hands.
Yes!
All images courtesy NET; 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 for Android devices here.
{ 0 comments }
Directed by Queens-based filmmaker Raul Buitrago, the recently released GOUCH is a sensitive, gripping portrait of a Brooklyn graffiti bomber living a dual life. After viewing the short, insightful documentary — chosen as a Vimeo Staff Pick — I had the opportunity to speak to Raul.
What drew you to graffiti? You obviously have a deep understanding and appreciation of its culture.
Growing up in Eastern Queens in the 90’s, I was exposed to graffiti early on. Graffiti was part of the punk and skateboard culture that was all around me. And I found myself gravitating to it.
And what about this particular writer? Why did you choose Gouch? And how did you connect with him?
Gouch was one of my personal favorite graffiti writers while growing up. His style and flow are incredible. I’d known about Gouch years before I reached out to him. He was featured in the legendary State Your Name DVD, and it was in that video that I first saw him in action. The footage was raw, gritty and true NY graff to the max. I contacted him via his Instagram in 2014.
Are there any issues regarding graffiti that particularly engage you? Any messages you wish to convey to your viewers?
As a fan and student of graffiti culture, I’m interested in its power to lure seemingly ordinary people. Its sway is amazing – and the way it always seems to call you back. So often, it becomes an obsession. I also find it very interesting that it can be glorified and vilified at the same time. Graffiti has made its way onto advertisements, clothing and other forms of branding while some of its practitioners end up doing time in Rikers Island. Graffiti is used for commercial purposes because it has that edge that can’t be found in other artistic realms. It’s unfortunate that big companies are profiting off something that’s created through the toils and risks of people who have such a deep appreciation, knowledge and ability in something so historically rich.
Yes, that is unfortunate, and it is something I’ve thought about quite a bit. It is — obviously — graffiti’s aspect of illegality that gives it that edge…You clearly won Gouch’s trust. I imagine that might have been your greatest challenge. What were some of the other challenges you faced in producing GOUCH?
As it was my first documentary, I was learning how to do it as I was doing it! I’d previously focused on music videos. That was my greatest challenge. Gaining Gouch‘s trust was actually incredibly easy. Upon first meeting, we spoke about graffiti at length. Because of my knowledge about the culture and my previous video work, he knew he could trust me. Other challenges I faced included coordinating schedules and making sure that his family was comfortable throughout the filming process. It was important to me that they be comfortable with the finished project since it’s so personal.
Have you a formal education in filmmaking?
I studied Photography at NYU, but I never studied filmmaking. I’m a self-taught filmmaker.
How long did it take you to produce GOUCH?
When I first met up with Gouch, I thought I would produce a two – three minute video. But it evolved into something far more, and I ended up working on it for one and a half years.
I’m so glad it worked out that way! Gouch – in all his complexity — is certainly worth knowing. And the music by Jazzsoon that accompanies your film perfectly complements it. I find myself viewing it again and again!
You can view the film in its entirety here.
All images courtesy Raul Buitrago; interview with Raul 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 for Android devices here.
{ 0 comments }
Recently released by Dokument Press, RUBIN NEW YORK SCANDINAVIA is a stunning survey of Rubin‘s distinct abstract and geometrical artworks that are rooted in traditional graffiti. With dozens of images documenting Rubin‘s journey — from Sweden, where he grew up, to NYC, where he is now based — Rubin New York/Scandinavia offers an overview of the works of an exceptional artist, who has brought a singular beauty to our NYC landscape.
The book’s succinct text by Björn Almqvist introduces us to Rubin’s experiences as a child of Finnish immigrants who made their way to Sweden in search of work. The alienation that Rubin felt among Swedes, along with the stark grey concrete walls of the housing complex that enveloped him, were calls to pick up a can and make a mark.
Inspired by Scandinavian design, Rubin has developed a unique aesthetic that uses geometrical, symbols in lieu of letters. With his splendid craftsmanship and unique aesthetic, he transforms the gritty language of graffiti into his own distinct expression that is as effective on the streets of the South Bronx, as it is inside a church yard or on the outside of a Manhattan boutique.
Rubin New York/Scandinavia also provides us with a handsomely curated survey of Rubin’s studio work that has been increasingly making its way into galleries.
Rubin New York/Scandinavia is a splendid ode to a distinctly wonderful artist. Its NYC release took place last month at WallWorks, where the artist’s works remain on exhibit through June 29th.
Images
1. & 2. Brooklyn, 2014
3. Brooklyn, 2014
4. Gothenburg, 1989
5. Brooklyn, 2015
6. Gallery nine5, 2014
Photo credits: Tony “Rubin” Sjöman and Mika Tuomivuo; all photos courtesy of Dokument Press; book review 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 for Android devices here.
{ 0 comments }
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
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.
{ 1 comment }
We recently had the opportunity to speak with writer and photographer Yoav Litvin about 2Create, his ongoing project and upcoming book on creative collaborations.
We love your recently launched 2Create Facebook Page and Group. Can you tell us something about the concept behind 2Create? What is its mission?
The aim of 2Create is to study and promote teamwork and fellowship as it showcases the art of collaboration. Folks tend to place far more emphasis on competition than on collaboration. But so much more can be accomplished if we work together.
Yes! We tend to glorify individualism, particularly in the West.
And my point is that when two people create, it is greater than two. 1 + 1 is not 2, but something more. The duo is the basic unit of a collective. And we need to look at forming collectives as a means to solve our societal problems.
One of your initial projects, related to this larger one, is your upcoming book, 2Create: Art Collaborations in New York City. Can you tell us something about it?
Yes. It will be released by Schiffer Publishing this fall. It showcases the works and processes of nine pairs of NYC graffiti and street artists. Each duo consists of two artists whose unique styles came together to create a larger-than-life work of street art in a NYC neighborhood. The book focuses on the backgrounds, techniques, and collaborative processes of the featured duos.
What spurred you to produce this particular book? What was your impetus behind it – in addition to promoting the concept of collaboration?
There were a number of factors. I was interested in expanding the documentation that I began in Outdoor Gallery New York City by getting to know more of my favorite artists – like Cekis and Rubin. But most of all, it was a project that enabled me to further develop myself as an artist by integrating my background in psychology, my passion for progressive politics and my respect and love for graffiti and street art in NYC.
What were some of the challenges that you faced in the process?
Identifying artists who could work well together and produce first-rate artwork was the initial challenge. I also had to gain their confidence and access to their relationship so that they would speak freely about the process. And some of the artists were quite shy – which was an additional challenge. And, then, for some of the works I had to secure walls, materials and more.
What’s ahead for 2Create? Where are you going with it?
I want to continue documenting and interviewing duos that work together in a wide range of scenarios: visual arts, dance, music and more!
How can we become engaged with your project? Can we contribute to it?
You can Like the project on Facebook and share your own collabs and connect with others here. You can also follow it on Instagram and on Twitter.
It sounds great! And what a wonderful concept!
Images
1. Dasic Fernandez with Rubin 415
2. Icy and Sot
4. ASVP
5. Jilly Ballistic with Al Diaz
6. Alice Mizrachi with Trap IF
7. Logo design by Dan Michman
Photos © Yoav Litvin; Yoav in conversation with Lois Stavsky, Tara Murray and City-as-School intern Sol Raxlen
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.
{ 0 comments }
Engaging a wide range of artists and art lovers of all ages, along with members of the local community, the Welling Court Mural Project celebrated its 7th anniversary with a huge block party on Saturday. Pictured above is the legendary Lady Pink at work. Here are several more images captured from the Welling Court Mural Project‘s annual event organized by Garrison & Alison Buxton.
Caleb Neelon at work on collaborative mural with Katie Yamasaki
Fumero at work on tribute mural to Muhammed Ali
Mike Makatron and Caroline Caldwell aka Dirt Workship at work on a collaborative mural
Cre8tive YouTH*ink, close-up of huge mural painted by youth under the direction of Jerry Otero aka Mista Oh
Chris Cardinale at work
Joel Artista at work on collaborative mural with Chris Soria and Marc Evan
Joseph Meloy, Ellis G and Abe Lincoln, Jr
Photos by 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 for Android devices here.
{ 0 comments }
Organized by Garrison & Alison Buxton, the Welling Court Mural Project is back gracing Welling Court and its neighboring blocks in Astoria, Queens with a wonderfully diverse array of artworks. Here is a sampling of some of the completed murals, along with others in progress, as artists ready for tomorrow’s official launch and block party.
Vagabonddom at work
Tamara Heller for Crisis Text Line
OneL NYC checking out his mural
Magda Love, with her assistant Jamie, at work
You can view the murals, meet the artists and join the festivities tomorrow — Saturday — from 12-8 along 30th Ave and 12th Street and neighboring blocks.
First image features Toofly, work in progress to be completed tomorrow, Saturday
Photo credits: 1, 2 4-9 Tara Murray; 3 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 for Android devices here.
{ 0 comments }
