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Speaking with the Original MSK — Manhattan Subway Kings — in Inwood

November 5, 2016

I met up with several members of the East Coast – and original – MSK crew while they were painting up in Inwood earlier this year. Among the writers I spoke to were: Kister, its current president; Dia One, MSK’s president back in the 80’s and its legendary former vice president, 2 New. (Note: pictured above is 2 New to the left of Dia One).

When was MSK first founded? And by whom?

It was founded in 1982 by MADE and WASE, along with a few other writers who attended IS 52 — right here in Inwood.

Which trains was MSK hitting back in the day?

Any one nearby – the 1 train, the A, the AA, the C, the CC, the RR and sometimes the D and B.

How were the original MSK crew members regarded back then?

All of us growing up in the Heights and here in Inwood had enormous respect for them. Everyone knew them and looked up to them.

Can you give us a sense of what it was like hitting the trains back then?

We followed a routine. Five or six of us would gather in a friend’s house. We’d design an outline. Then we’d rack the paint from a local hardware store. And once we had the paint, we’d pick a yard and sneak in.

And once you got into the yard?

We had to worry about gangs, dogs, cops and stepping on the 3^rd rail. Success was getting out alive and taking a photo.

Do any particular memories stand out?

When three young MSK guys went to the 145^th Street lay-ups and had their cans taken away by members of Jon One’s crew. We had to retaliate, and we ended up eventually beating the crap out of two of them. The drama only continued, and eventually Jon One left NYC for Paris.

As the train era ended in the late 80’s, what surfaces were MSK’s second and third generation hitting?

Mostly highways, rooftops and handball courts. And because we had to be fast, we mostly did bombs and throw-ups. We didn’t have time for pieces – except for occasional ones on handball courts.

Here you have members of all three generations of MSK working together – painting on a legal wall.

Yes, we do it because it’s fun. It’s our way of celebrating our culture.

And how does painting on a legal spot like this one differ from working illegally?

On a legal space like this, we can take our time and make as many changes as we want as we work. But when we paint on walls like these, we can’t get the adrenalin rush that comes with working illegally. It’s not the same — nowhere close! And we miss it!

Images

1. Dia One and 2 New against mural by Frankizm

2. Frankizm at work on tribute mural to 2 New

3. Dia One at work at night

4. Kron

5. Dia One — memorial wall first painted in 1992 and redone, at the family’s request, in 2013 — with Flite, Frankizm, Kister, Cel & Nest

Interview & photos by Lois Stavsky

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The New Allen on the LES: Mr June, Eelco, Patch Whisky & Ghost Beard, Edward Granger, the Minuske, the Ology Collective & the London Police

November 3, 2016

Launched earlier this year by Franco Noriega and Milan Kelez, the New Allen has been bringing a stylish mix of street art and graffiti to the Lower East Side. Here are a few more images we’ve captured:

Mr June — closer-up

Eelco

Patch Whisky and Ghostbeard

Edward Granger

The Minuske

Ology Collective — Col, Ski and 2esae — over on Delancey Street

And earlier — at work with the London Police peeking through

Photo credits: 1, 2, 4, 6 & 7 Lois Stavsky; 3 & 8 Tara Murray

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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Speaking with Montreal-Based Street and Studio Artist Waxhead

November 1, 2016

Toronto native Waxhead moved to Montreal in 2012, where his singular style has surfaced on a range of surfaces from vintage photographs to huge walls. I discovered his distinct aesthetic this past summer while visiting Station 16 and exploring the streets of Montreal. Waxhead‘s first solo exhibit in Montreal, Waxhead: An Installation opens this Thursday, November 3 at Station 16. While in Montreal, I had the opportunity to visit Waxhead‘s studio and pose some questions to him.

When and where did you first get up?

I was 13 when I began tagging along the trackside in Toronto. It was back in 2006.

Who or what inspired you at the time?

I lived right beside the train tracks. I saw graffiti every day. It seemed like the natural thing to do. I didn’t become serious, though, about it until I was 18. That’s when I really got into characters.

How did your family feel about what you were doing back then?

My mom has always been supportive. ‘gotta love Mom!

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

I respect the mentality of getting up. But I also appreciate the refined work of street art. I’ve done both.

How do you feel about collaborating with other artists?

I love to collaborate. Among the artists I’ve painted with are: Cry0te, Sbuone and Getso.

What about the movement of street art into galleries?

It’s great when artists can live off their work and have a space to show it. But they must keep the true sense of it.

Have you, yourself, exhibited your art in a gallery setting?

I’ve exhibited in several group shows — mostly in Canada.

What inspires you these days?

Colors, nature, old photos. I love collecting old photos and reworking them.

Are there any particular cultures that have influenced your aesthetics?

I‘ve been inspired by the time I spent in India – particularly the beautiful colors I associate with its culture.

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

I let it flow. If I don’t like it, I can always do it again.

Are you generally satisfied with your work?

No! I’m very critical.

What do you think of the role of the Internet in all of this?

It’s a great tool for me to connect with other artists and with clients.

Do you have a formal arts education?

No! I’m self-taught. My friends were my best teachers.

What percentage of your time is devoted to art?

All of it. I live my life through my art. I’ve always been drawing.

And is it the main source of your income?

Yes, most of the money I earn is through my artwork.

What is the riskiest thing you’ve done?

I was painting in India – balancing on a wobbly two-story ladder — when a giant bull was about to rub against it.

That certainly does sound menacing! How would you describe your ideal working environment?

Painting outside with friends. I love meeting and talking to people.

How has your work evolved through the years?

It’s become more refined.

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

As far as the street artist — it is to connect people to one another through what they see on the streets. I especially want to connect to the youth in this city.

What about the photographers in this scene? And the bloggers? How do you feel about them?

We need them! What we do needs to be archived.

I certainly agree with that!

Note: Waxhead: An Installation — a collection of Waxhead’s hand-embellished vintage photos — opens this Thursday, November 3 at 6pm at Station 16 and continues through November 14.

Interview by Lois Stavsky

Photos: 1, 2 & 4 Lois Stavsky; 3 courtesy Station 16

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Graffiti and Street Art in Logan Square, Chicago with Amuse 126, Rahmaan Statik, Ceno 2, Merlot, Melon James, Werth & Sentrock

October 24, 2016

The exterior of Logan Square’s former Megamall, along with its adjoining parking lot, boasts over two dozen first rate murals. Pictured above is by Amuse 126, who curated the art that was painted on the soon-to-be demolished Megamall building. Here’s a sampling of art on the building and in its adjoining parking lot.

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.

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ZINEmercado — First Logan Square Independent Zine Fest — Debuts Tomorrow, Sunday, 0ct. 23, at Chicago’s Comfort Station

October 22, 2016

Organized by Oscar Arriola and CHema Skandal, ZINEmercado, the inaugural Logan Square Independent Zine Fest, is happening tomorrow, Sunday, October 23, from noon to 6pm at Comfort Station. While in Chicago this past week, I had the opportunity to meet up with Oscar Arriola and check out a few of the zines.

When I first met you in NYC several years ago, we discovered that we are both huge zine fans! What is it about zines that appeals to you?

I love that you can make a zine on any topic that appeals to you and can share it with everyone. There are no rules! And you can use any materials you choose.

Do you remember the first zine that you discovered thet spurred your interest in this particular medium?

I started collecting them before I even knew what the term zine meant or even that it existed! My favorite was the one I bought at Barry McGee’s solo exhibit at Deitch Projects in 2005. It was $25.00, a lot of money at that time!

Wow! That is a lot of money for a zine — even now! But no doubt it was worth it! Any other favorite zines?

Just about any zine by Barry McGee and his crew DFW or Down for Whatever.

You, yourself, have created zines. When did you design your first zine? And what was its topic?

I designed my first zine five years ago, although I’d been thinking about creating one for some time. I work for the Chicago Public Library, and so I’m around all kinds of books all day I became intrigued by the covers of Indian books, and I began scanning them. My first zine was a collection of these images.

What spurred you to become engaged in this upcoming zine fest?

I love zines, and I love the idea of bringing the community together for an event like this.

Have you ever done anything like this before?

I was one of the organizers for the Chicago Zine Fest three years ago.

How many folks will be exhibiting at ZINEmercado?

There will be 14 tables representing about 30 artists.

How did you get the word out to the participants?

We spoke to people we knew, and we’ve been using social media. You can check us out, in fact, on Instagram.

What is the biggest challenge that you and CHema Skanda have faced in organizing this event?

Making sure people know about it! We’d like to engage as many folks as possible. Our flyers include text in English, Spanish and Polish, as we want to include members of the local community. Admission is free.

In addition to viewing, trading and purchasing zines, are there any other activities taking place?

During the fest, ZINEmercado will present a range of activities including art talks by Johnny Sampson and CHema Skandal, a performance by Wet Wallet, and DJ sets by Amara Betty and Esteban La Groue of Impala Sound Champions!

Good luck! It’s looking great!

Images

1. CHema Skandal

2. Gabriel Alcala

3. DFW Crew with Barry McGee & more

4. & 5. Tom Guenth

6. Alex Lukas

7. Sonic Visual Graphics

8. Flyer for ZINEmercado, designed by CHema Skandal, featuring image of Oscar Arriola

Interview with Oscar Arriola conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky

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Russian Street Artist Yulia Vanifatieva aka Hula on Her Pink Power Art Project, Her Distinct Aesthetic, New York City and more

October 19, 2016

Moscow-based artist Yulia Vanifatieva aka Hula recently made her way to NYC and left her mark in Bushwick, Brooklyn. After she’d finished painting several outdoor murals in collaboration with JMZ Walls, I had the opportunity to meet up with her and find about a bit about the young Russian artist and her Pink Power art project.

When did you first get up in a public space?

A lot of my childhood friends were painting on the streets, and it was something that I had always wanted to do. But I didn’t attempt to until four years ago when I was already a university graduate.

And what was it about street art that appealed to you? That made you want to try it?

I liked the idea of expressing my individuality in a public space.

How did the other street artists respond to you — as a woman in the scene?

At first no one took me seriously. But that has been changing.

Have you collaborated with other street artists?

I’ve never deliberately collaborated, but it’s happened accidentally — when friends start painting on a wall after they’ve seen me begin. Then it — unintentionally — evolves into a team effort!

Do you work from a sketch when you paint?

I have a basic sketch, but I don’t really refer much to it or think about the process. I just do it!

Do you have a formal art education?

Yes. I graduated from the Ivanova State Textile Academy in 2008 with a degree in Fashion Design. And then between 2010 and 2012, I studied Visual Communications at the British Higher School of Art and Design. But I’d been drawing all my life, and I always knew I wanted to be an artist!

What has been your main source of income — as an artist?

Designing window displays for high-end department stores.

Can you tell us something about your particular aesthetic? How has it developed?

I am interested in experimenting with different surfaces, styles and materials. While studying Fashion Design, I began to use magazines as my canvas. I created fashion illustration sketches with cosmetics instead of with paint and with money instead of with paper. I am increasingly interested in concepts.

Are you generally satisfied with your finished piece?

At first, I’m not! It takes me awhile to like it.

How has your work or process evolved within this past few years?

Initially, it was difficult for me to execute what I had envisioned. But that has gotten much easier.

Have you any favorite street artists? Artists who have inspired you?

Among my favorites are Anthony Lister and Herakut.

Yes! I can see their influence. They are among my favorite ones, as well! Has your family been supportive of your career choice?

Always! My parents have always encouraged me to follow my passions. They understand how challenging and exciting an artist’s life is.

We street art aficionados have come to identify you with your Pink Power project. Just what is the concept behind it?

It is a celebration of female power. The concept behind it is that a woman can be strong, clever and beautiful. A woman’s seemingly delicate veneer should not be confused with or mistaken for weakness.

You recently participated in Moscow’s Artmossphere Street Art Biennale. Can you tell us something about that?

Moscow’s Artmossphere Street Art Biennale is a huge showcase of international street art. This year’s marks its second anniversary. I was among 42 international artists — including Miss Van, Li-Hill, M-City and the London Police — and 26 Russian artists whose work was presented.

That’s quite impressive! You’ve painted several walls here in NYC — most recently in collaboration with JMZ Walls. What is your impression of our city?

I love it here. I love this city’s energy and its free atmosphere. NYC is such an open-minded place.

What’s ahead?

I’d like to do less commercial work so that I can focus further on developing and refining my own aesthetic and artistic vision.

https://vimeo.com/177523035

That sounds great! Good luck with it all!

Photo credits: 1-3 Lois Stavsky; 4-6 courtesy of the artist; interview conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky with assistance from Anastasia Foresman whose translation skills came to the rescue!

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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Kids on NYC Walls — Part XI: with Vince Ballentine, Faile, BK Foxx, Theresa Kim and Sipros

October 17, 2016

This is the eleventh in a series of occasional posts featuring images of children that have surfaced on NYC public spaces

Vince Ballentine for Educated Little Monsters in Bushwick

Faile in Greenpoint

BK Foxx with JMZ Walls in Bushwick

Theresa Kim with Spread Art NYC in Bushwick

Sipros for the NYC Arts Cypher in Staten Island

Photo credits: 1, 2, 4 & 5 Lois Stavsky; 3 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.

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Skillosophy Celebrates Street Art & Graffiti Outside Livestream’s Bushwick Headquarters with: Fin DAC, Rubin, Danielle Mastrion and Lexi Bella, Jerms, Misha T, N Carlos J & more

October 13, 2016

Several stunning new murals recently surfaced on Morgan Avenue and Stagg Street in Bushwick. While visiting Livestream last week, I spoke to visual artist and curator Bianca Romero about Skillosophy, the movement behind these artworks.

Just what is Skillosophy? And when was it launched?

It’s an exhibition/showcase series that takes place four times a year with a focus on multi-disciplinary artists. It was launched last year by the co-founders of Lyricist Lounge & Defiant Ent and Livestream. For this past quarter, Danny Castro — Lyricist Lounge co-founder — and I decided to feature outdoor murals for the fall exhibition during Bushwick Open Studios, in addition to the art that is on exhibit inside the Livestream headquarters.

What spurred you to add this outdoor element to Skillosophy?

Typically, Skillosophy is indoors, inside the Livestream studio space. But we wanted to take it outside for Bushwick Open Studios. It seemed like a great way to give exposure to the talented muralists and street artists, and it was a great addition to our Block Party to have it done live. We loved the communal and public aspect of it.

You’ve done a wonderful job of curating it all. The art both inside and outside is wonderfully eclectic and is beautifully presented. Have you a background in art?

Both my parents are artists. My father, in fact, was a pioneer in graphic design and has taught design at the School of Visual Arts and at the Parsons School of Design. My mother was a fashion designer, and I, myself, am an artist.

And can you tell us a bit about Livestream? When was it first founded and what is its mission?

It was founded in 2007 with the mission to make any every event available live online through video.

And how has Livestream responded to Skillosophy?

The love it. They’ve thoroughly embraced it. They love the idea of bringing the extraordinary talents of Bushwick into our offices. A walk through our offices — that are covered with work by local artists — is like a walk through the neighborhood!

Who is Skillosophy‘s audience?

All art lovers! Anyone who loves any aspect of art — music, dance, film or visual art. The venue has hosted hip-hop shows, film industry mixers and skillshares in addition to art exhibits. We’ve had a very diverse audience…from working class folks to art collectors to party people!

How can folks best keep up with your events? And how can they arrange a visit to Livestream‘s headquarters for private viewings of the indoor art?

They can follow Skillosoph y on Instagram, and they can contact us at skillosophyshow@gmail.com to schedule a private viewing and inquire about pricing and events. And any artist or performer interested in participating in a future Skillosophy exhibition and showcase can contact as at this email, as well.

Images

1 & 2 Fin DAC at work

3 Rubin at work

4 Danielle Mastrion and Lexi Bella

5 Jerms

6 Misha T

7 N Carlos J

Photo credits 1-5 & 7 Karin du Maire and 6 Tara Murray; interview with Bianca Romero conducted by Lois Stavsky

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Queens-Based Kid Lew Goes Big at Downtown Markham in Toronto

October 8, 2016

Queens-based artist Steve Lew aka Kid Lew recently brought his talents and vision to Toronto’s Enterprise Boulevard. The new urban complex — known as Downtown Markham – is now graced with a huge, brilliantly hued 40’x50’ mural, featuring Kid Lew’s iconic characters. Situated on the northeast corner of the Remington Contemporary Art Gallery, it can be seen for miles and by thousands of folks daily as they pass by on Highway 407. I recently spoke to the artist about his experience.

Can you tell us something about this project? What brought you to Toronto?

I had been invited by Broadway Bound — a fine arts and entertainment company — to paint an outdoor mural in Downtown Markham. I had submitted a few ideas, and one was accepted.

And how did you initially connect with Broadway Bound?

I had met Shelley Shier, the founder of Broadway Bound, at the Dorien Grey Gallery back in 2012. I was one of the street artists who had collaborated with Hank O’Neil aka XCIA for the exhibit Street Artists Unite. We’ve stayed in touch since.

Your mural is huge! How long did it take you to paint it?

It took 12 days, working 8-10 hours each day.

What were some of the challenges presented by this project?

I almost always paint standing on the ground. But this time I started on the third floor of a building. I immediately got over my fear of heights! It was also rainy and very windy. I could feel the lift swinging from side to side! Sometimes the wind actually sprayed the paint! Then when I walked around the hotel, I felt as though everything beneath me was moving! I had a serious case of lift lag!

I’ve been a huge fan of your characters since I first discovered them years ago — on the streets and in galleries! Can you tell us something about them? What initially inspired them?

I was intially inspired by cartoons. I began as a young child copying Disney characters. And later on my main influences grew to include: graffiti, skateboarding, NYC pop culture and — in general — life in this city. But my greatest inspiration in Keith Haring. And because I am color blind, I tend to use colors that appear brightest to me — those that can be seen at night.

And who are these characters? What do they represent? And how have they evolved through the years?

They’re often not as bright as they appear to be. They represent different phases in my life. And as my life evolves, my characters continue to evolve, as well. Both my technique and design have become more refined through the years. I am also more responsive to my audience.

What’s next?

I hope to return to Jersey City to complete the mural I’d begun with Will Power and Ree. It is a huge mural that was put on hold. I’m, also, looking forward to painting more large-scale murals in a range of cities. And I am participating this weekend in the New York Comic Con, where you will be able to purchase custom used Montana Gold Spray Paint cans and ink drawings on spray painted subway maps. I will be signing some at 2pm at Booth 603 with Clutter Magazine.

Good luck with it all! And I look forward to checking out your mural when I visit Toronto.

Interview conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky; all photos courtesy of the artist.

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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Buff Monster on: Living in NYC, Collaborating With Brands, Celebrating Brooklyn for Miller Lite’s Our Can, Your Canvas and more

October 7, 2016

Celebrated for his captivating characters that have surfaced throughout the globe, Buff Monster forever delights us with his playful imagination and creative energy. In addition to painting murals across the world, the wildly talented and prolific artist has fashioned a wide array of artworks from prints and stickers to vinyl toys. He has also collaborated with numerous brands. Curious about this collaborative process, I recently caught up with him where he had just finished painting a mural in partnership with Miller Lite at Dobbins Street and Norman Avenue — where Williamsburg meets Greenpoint.

You were born in Hawaii and lived on the West Coast for several years. What brought you to NYC?

I’ve been to all 50 states, but I’ve only lived in states with good weather. I lived in LA for 15 years, and I grew tired of the same climate all the time. I needed a change. I wanted to be somewhere where there are seasons. I was looking for something different — personally and professionally.

And has NY met your expectations?

Absolutely! I love it! NYC has brought me new opportunities and projects. And snow is amazing! But you wouldn’t catch me painting outdoors in the winter!

You’ve created dozens of murals on the streets and an incredible range of your own products. You’ve worked, as well, with many brands. Among them are: Disney, Converse, Hello Kitty, Samsung, Nike, Coca-Cola and here with Miller Lite. What are some of the challenges that working with brands imposes?

The challenge is to make it work for everyone — for me, for the company I’ve teamed up with and for its intended viewers. Any collaboration I take on has to be consistent with my brand, and it has to make sense! A successful collaboration forces me to think. And I like to think! I like challenges!

What about this particular project — this collaboration with Miller Lite? What’s happening here?

This blank canvas was donated to me by Miller Lite as the first installation of its Our Can, Your Canvas project, a program aimed at celebrating the character and soul of iconic neighborhoods. My challenge was to capture the distinct spirit of Brooklyn — its energy and integrity. And so I came up with symbols that represent Brooklyn as I see it.

You studied Business Administration and Fine Art at The University of Southern California. How has your education in business administration impacted your art career?

It made my art career. If you don’t make money from what you do, it is just a hobby.

We love your characters. Your Melty Misfits are so much fun. What are some of your influences?

Among them are: Heavy Metal, Pop Art, ice cream, Japanese culture and graffiti.

How has your artwork evolved through the years?

It has become more expressive.

What’s ahead?

I’m headed now to the Life Is Beautiful Music Festival in Las Vegas, Nevada where my Self Portrait will be on display at the Crime on Canvas group exhibit. ( Buff Monster has since returned and is now at work in Jersey City with Mana Urban Arts Projects.)

Note: Buff Monster’s mural for Our Can, Your Canvas remains up through October 30.

Photo credits: 1, 2, 4 & 8 Tara Murray; 5 Courtesy of Our Can, Your Canvas 3, 6 & 7 and interview Lois Stavsky;

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