Opening this evening from 6-9pm at the Hi-Arts Gallery on 304 East 100th Street is JR’s Inside Out Mi Gente/ Oyáte kiŋ Art Project — focusing on and uniting two communities: NYC’s East Harlem and South Dakota’s Pine Ridge Reservation. Here are a few images captured yesterday while visiting the exhibit, curated by Carlos Mare:
Closer-up
And more
And outside with murals by Alice Mizrachi and Part One
Photos by Dani Reyes Mozeson
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An innovative line of hoodies with interchangeable, collectible art-inspired hoods provides a new canvas for artists, including some of NYC’s street artists. Curious about it all, we posed some questions to Amisha Patel, the founder and CEO of Le Collektor.
What inspired you to bring the art that we see on our city’s streets and galleries to hoodies?
The outcry and public debate around the whitewashing of 5Pointz reminded me of what street art is all about. It’s such a pure form of self-expression — truly democratic in nature. At its root is a desire to be seen and heard. And while I think it’s great for artists that street art has been recognized by traditional art collectors and galleries, we wanted to find a way to bring its democratic spirit to its original fans – people on the streets. The hoodie – a streetwear classic – seemed a great way to do it.
How did you select the particular artists who are participating in this venture?
We approached it as if we were curating a group show that artists would want to attend. We wanted to showcase distinct styles that could be seen in cities around the world. We also wanted to work with artists who were on board with what we’re trying to do. Our inaugural artists – Nick Gazin, Chris Uphues, Sonni, Dru Brennan, EWOK, David R. Head, Jr. and Joseph Meloy – have been amazingly supportive, and we very much appreciate that they trust a new brand with their work.
How have the artists responded to your mission?
The artists love the idea. It gives them a direct way to connect to fans — especially those who aren’t in cities that have street art scenes. Everyone also really loves the way the hoodies turned out.
Which artists – based here in NYC – are you featuring?
Joseph Meloy, Nick Gazin, Sonni, Chris Uphues and David R. Head, Jr
How can artists join this project?
We’d love to grow our list of collaborators! Artists can email me directly at amisha@lecollektor.com
Can you tell us something about the hoodie itself? Who will be manufacturing it?
We wanted our hoodie to be the go-to so we made sure that it was worthy of the art on its hoods. It’s being made by a factory in Los Angeles that we found through our friends at Bleick Studio who work with some of the best streetwear brands out there:
Why did you launch a Kickstarter? Can you tell us something about it?
Big brands use artists’ work all the time, but we want to build our brand around the artwork in a way that it will provide artists with meaningful income directly from their fans. Kickstarter seemed the perfect platform to engage directly with artists’ fans and with the creatively-minded community we want to build around Le Collektor. It’s about bringing big ideas to life, and — really more than any other company out there — it has created a new class of everyday patrons of the arts – which is in line with our company’s mission. So far, it’s been very exciting to see all of the support and love for what we’re doing. We’re a Kickstarter staff pick, and artists have written in from all over saying they’d love to be part of the movement.
Note: You can check out and support Le Collektor’s Kickstarter here.
Photo credits: 1. Sonni on Bushwick rooftop, Lois Stavsky; 2. Sonni in the East Village, Tara Murray; 3. Sonni hood, courtesy of Le Collecktor; 4. and 5. Chris Uphues in Williamsburg, Lois Stavsky; 6. Chris Uphues hood, courtesy of Le Collecktor; 7. Joseph Meloy at Welling Court, Dani Reyes Mozeson; 8. Joseph Meloy for the Centre-fuge Public Art Project, Tara Murray; 9. Joseph Meloy hood, courtesy of Le Collecktor
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Topaz – one of the most active members of the hip-hop and 5Pointz communities – began customizing T-shirts when he was in junior high school. His most recent venture is the X-Spot, a unique space at 2 East 116th Street in East Harlem. We recently visited him and had the opportunity to speak to both Topaz and Jay, the manager of Production X.
How did you guys come up with the idea to open such a space?
We grew up together in Rego Park, Queens, and we’ve been working together for years. We’ve actually had two stores before – one in Paterson, New Jersey and the other in South Carolina. We wanted to do something different from what we’d done in the past.
In what ways is this venture different?
Our emphasis here is on providing services and maintaining a gallery. It is production-based. Although we sell graffiti art on canvases, select magazines — like the latest issue of Flashbacks — and CD’s, our space here is not primarily a store or shop.
What are some of the services that you provide?
We provide clients with all forms of graphic design — customized murals, logos, portraits, canvases, T-shirts and more.
It sounds – and looks – great! Whom do you see as your principal clientele?
At this point, it is largely the hip-hop community – rappers and entertainers. But, ideally, the general public, especially as graffiti continues to gain respect and recognition as an art form.
This is such a great location! It’s right off 5th Avenue in East Harlem and down the block from the 2 and 5 subway lines. How did you guys come up with such a great locale?
A lucky set of circumstances – as Jay’s cousin had previously worked at this location.
The artwork on display here is primarily by you, Topaz, Jerms and Treat Street NY. Are you open to other artists participating in your projects?
Absolutely. Talented and committed artists can stop by our space or drop us an email at ProductionX@aol.com or LordRoccolypse@aol.com.
Photo credits: 1. and 2. Topaz by City-as-School intern Tyler Dean Flores; 3. Jerms by Lois Stavsky; 4. Jerms, Topaz & Blone by Lois Stavsky; 5. Treat Street with Jay (X-Productions) by Lois Stavsky; 6. Treat Street, as commissioned by Derek Jeter’s nephew, by Lois Stavsky and 7. Poet, Pace, Jerms, Sav, Ice and more by Dani Reyes Mozeson
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This is the seventh post in an occasional series featuring artwork on NYC shutters:
Elle at Welling Court in Astoria, Queens
Foxxface in Bushwick
Peruvian artist Biark in the Rockaways
Caratoes in the Bronx for the Tag Public Arts Project
Claw Money and Lexi Bella at the Bushwick Collective
Mark Paul Deren aka MADSTEEZ on the Lower East Side
UR New York in Bushwick
Queen Andrea in the East Village for the LISA Project
Photos: 1, 4 & 5 Lois Stavsky; 2, 6-8 Dani Reyes Mozeson and 3 by Tara Murray
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Gracing Prospect Heights — a short walk from the Brooklyn Museum — is a wondrous wall fashioned last month by Meres One, See TF, Danielle Mastrion and NME. Here are a few more images:
Photos by Dani Reyes Mozeson; the first photo features Meres One and See TF
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Just one block off the MTA Broadway-Junction station in East New York, Brooklyn are some of NYC’s most intriguing walls. Here’s a sampling of what I captured earlier this week in the bright sun:
Nicole Palapoli and Bugn
Note: The image of Lites’s piece features the fashion model Tabitha Annette Miller, whom I met along with her stylist Sheryl Roberts during a photoshoot by RedHanded Imagery.
Photos by Lois Stavsky; keep posted to the Street Art NYC Facebook page for more images of recent walls in that location.
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The ingenious InstaFame Phantom Art, conceived and curated by Nic 707, continues to bring old school writers — along with newer ones from NYC and beyond — back to the trains. Here are a few images captured on recent rides:
Paulie Nassar and the legendary TAKI 183 — with background by Nic 707
TAKI 183 with background by Nic 707
Photo credits: 1 & 7, City-as-School intern Tyler Flores; 2 – 6, Lois Stavsky; 8, Nic 707
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Known for his socially conscious, often satirical, stencils that have surfaced throughout his native Bogotá and beyond, Praxis has lately been sharing his vision and talents with us here in NYC.
What inspires you to get your work out there on public space?
I love to paint anywhere, on any surface – but especially in places where I know that folks will appreciate it. I also like to paint in neighborhoods where there isn’t much art. Those are the spaces that need it. I like bringing cheer to others!
Have you any messages that you wish to convey in your artwork?
There is always some concept or message behind what I do. I’m especially concerned with animal rights and human injustice.
Are there any specific cultures that have influenced your aesthetic?
Certainly the culture in which I grew up in Bogotá. I’ve also been influenced by African culture and from what I read. I read a lot!
You’ve been in NYC for a few months now. Any particularly striking differences between painting here and back home in Bogotá?
Back home, there is more of an appreciation for artists who paint on the streets. The people love it. They bring us drinks and food, and they always make us feel welcome.
Any thoughts on the graffiti/ street art divide?
I don’t feel it. Many of the writers I know work with or alongside street artists.
How do you feel about the movement of graffiti and street art into galleries?
It’s a great opportunity for us to make money some money, although I often don’t like the attitude of some of the folks who run the galleries. And graffiti and street art really do belong on the streets!
Do you prefer working alone or collaborating with others?
Both; I enjoy the mix of different styles.
Is there any one artist with whom you would especially like to collaborate?
C215.
Any thoughts about the role of the Internet in this scene?
It’s useful.
Do you have a formal arts education?
I did study art formally – but just about everything I learned was by painting with other artists.
What’s the riskiest thing you’ve done?
Bombing in cities far from home – like Berlin.
Were you ever arrested?
Twice back home in Bogota. I ended up each time spending over 12 hours with drunks and thieves – but they all liked graffiti.
How would you describe your ideal working environment?
Painting in La Candeleria in downtown Bogotá.
What percentage of your day is devoted to your art?
All of it! When I’m not painting on the streets, I work as an illustrator.
Are you generally satisfied with your finished piece?
Of course!
How do you feel when you look back at the work you did a number of years back?
I feel that my skills have improved.
What do you see as the role of the artist in society?
To bring happiness to others.
What’s ahead?
I will be showing in STREET MURALS: An Exhibition, curated by Kevin Michael, opening this evening, October 24th 6pm-11pm at Be Electric on 1298 Willoughby Avenue in Bushwick, BK.
What do you see yourself doing in five years from now?
I would just like to paint all day every day!
Interview conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky; images 1 and 5 courtesy of the artist; photo 2 by Lois Stavsky; photos 3 and 4 by Dani Reyes Mozeson
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This past Saturday, the LISA Project celebrated its second anniversary party with a spirited Secret Walls battle in the now-famous parking lot on Little Italy’s Mulberry Street. Team Lowbrow’s Bishop 203, Mastro, Zimad, and Steiner competed against Team Supreme’s Lamour Supreme, Jeremyville, Boy Kong, and Nick Gazin. Here are a few images:
Bishop 203 and Zimad (R)
Lamour Supreme at work
Jeremyville‘s draft
The illustrious judges: Sean Corcoran, Martha Cooper, Terror 161 and Carlo McCormick
The winning Team LowBrow members with LISA Project founder and director Wayne Rada
And the beloved “Taggers Delight” wall with NYC-based illustrator Sashalyn leaving her mark — to the left of Stikki Peaches
Photos by Dani Reyes Mozeson
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Billy Schon, one of NYC’s most passionate and knowledgeable graffiti documentarians, regularly shares his expertise with us on his blog Fresh Paint NYC and on his Instagram. His book Fresh Paint NYC (2010) is among the best resources out there for those of us who love graffiti — from unsanctioned tags to legal walls. And his recent project — The Instagram Archives – is a treasure of 96 photos shot by I-phone that Billy personally selected from his thousands of Instagram photos. I recently had the opportunity to speak to Billy about his recent project and more.
When did it all start? When did you first become interested in graffiti?
Back in 1996 — when I was 16 — I spent a lot of time skating on the streets. That’s when and where I began to meet writers.
What about your incredible wealth of information? Had you any sources besides those writers that you, yourself, met and got to know?
I used to pick up graff magazines while visiting Tower Records. Magazines like Stress, On the Go and Skills.
When did you first begin taking photos of graffiti?
I began after 9/11. At that time I had stopped skating – cold turkey.
Were there any photographers out there who particularly inspired you?
Definitely Jim and Karla Murray. They were actively documenting graffiti at the time and encouraged me to do so.
Have you any personal favorites from among your photos?
Many! Among them are: a Taki 183 tag found in Manhattan; the original Hostos building in the Bronx with its incredible history; Sane hidden under layers of poster advertisements.
You seem to enjoy exploring and uncovering graffiti history.
Yes! I particularly like photographing places that are difficult to access and spaces that no longer exist – where works are hidden.
You can purchase The Instagram Archives here.
Interview conducted and edited by Lois Stavsky. Photos from FreshPaintNYC’s The Instagram Archives: 1. Bridgeport; 2. Mike Giant; 3. Daily Routine; 4. Era PFE & 5. Taki 183
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