All posts tagged: Steven P. Harrington

Books In The MCL: Golden Boy as Anthony Cool: by Herbert Kohl and James Hinton

Books In The MCL: Golden Boy as Anthony Cool: by Herbert Kohl and James Hinton

As founding members of the Martha Cooper Library at the Urban Nation Museum in Berlin, Brooklyn Street Art (BSA) proudly showcases a monthly feature from the MCL collection, illuminating the extensive and diverse treasures we’re assembling for both researchers and enthusiasts of graffiti, street art, urban art, and its numerous offshoots. Below, we present one of our latest selections.


Text Steven P. Harrington and Jaime Rojo Photos by Sebastian Kläbsch

Herbert Kohl and James Hinton, Golden Boy as Anthony Cool. 1972.

Herbert Kohl and James Hinton’s “Golden Boy as Anthony Cool,” published in 1972, is a seminal work in the study of urban graffiti and street culture. Not only an academic exploration; it’s a journey into the heart of graffiti as a form of personal expression, rebellion, and cultural identity. Kohl’s insightful essays paired with Hinton’s evocative photographs provide a window into the lives of young people in the urban landscapes of New York City and Los Angeles as they simultaneously boil, wane and flourish in the late 60s and early 70s. These vibrant and vibrating communities are chronicled, whether affluent suburbs or struggling neighborhoods, each appears to brim with stories cryptically told through tags and murals on walls and doors.

As a crucial part of street art history, “Golden Boy as Anthony Cool” is an essential resource for anyone interested in the roots of modern graffiti culture. Its compelling blend of vivid imagery and profound analysis not only makes it an invaluable addition to any collector’s library but also a portal to the dynamic world of urban street art. Simple and unassuming, the book is testament to graffiti’s evolution, offering a deeper appreciation for the art form and the voices that shape it.

GO TO MCL AT URBAN NATION MUSEUM BERLIN TO CONTINUE READING.

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Dispatch From Curaçao: Caribbean Warmth and Urban Art

Dispatch From Curaçao: Caribbean Warmth and Urban Art

On the street, Curacao feels like a vibrant heart where Caribbean warmth meets urban art in a spectacular showdown. It’s an island—a canvas painted with rich strokes of history, culture, and innovative thinking. Nestled off the Venezuelan coast, Curacao stands out with its Dutch heritage, swirling in a cocktail of languages, cuisines, and, notably, street art that tells stories deeper than the clear blue waters surrounding it.

Carlos Blaaker. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)

Willemstad, the capital, is not just a city but a UNESCO-listed testament to colonial architecture, Caribbean vibes, and mural magic. Here, historical narratives meet modernity, and old Dutch houses stand tall, often awash with color. Beyond the postcard-perfect Handelskade, a current revolution in public art-making brings paint, passion, and a sense of purpose, led by a vibrant local creative community.

Garrick Marchena. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)

Enter Street Art Skalo, a pied piper of this visual revolution, transforming the neighborhood of Scharloo Abou from a forgotten area into an outdoor museum. This isn’t merely a beautification effort spearheaded by the chamber of commerce; it’s an eclectic transformation that breathes life, creating a dialogue that invites locals and tourists alike to wander, wonder, and witness the neighborhood as it is reborn.

Curacao’s mural scene is as diverse as its coral reefs, featuring everything from intricate stencil works to grandiose murals stretching across buildings. Themes delve into identity, heritage, colonial past, global issues, and natural beauty—all greeted with Caribbean flair. From the alleys of Scharloo Abou to the bustling streets of Punda and Otrobanda, Curacao offers a kaleidoscope of styles and techniques, mirroring the island’s multicultural heartbeat.

Garrick Marchena. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)

Thanks to light artist Chris Jordan, who shares with BSA Readers his photos of recent discoveries on Curacao. Through his photos, Chris captures an island that is not just surviving but thriving, propelled by creativity. It’s good to know that here one can look beyond the beaches, dive into its streets, and find some real treasures.

Mr. Garek. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Tao Szen. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Giovanni Abath. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Nina Paintina. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Blend Curacao. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Jhomar Loaiza. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Jhomar Loaiza. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Jhomar Loaiza. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Jhomar Loaiza. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Jhomar Loaiza. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Jhomar Loaiza. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Nina Valkhoff. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Bio Tats Cru. Eno Egul. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
Unidentified artist. Willemstad, Curaçao. (photo © Chris Jordan)
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BSA Images Of The Week: 03.24.24

BSA Images Of The Week: 03.24.24

Welcome to BSA Images of the Week!

Spring officially arrived this week, along with torrential rains and sometimes flooding. Happy Nowruz to all our Persian friends, and Happy Purim to the youngsters in costumes going to parties this weekend. The city’s walls reflect a new blossoming of talents joining with those more established in the visual arts, a usual mismatch of styles, coded messages, and obvious imagery. If you love New York, it is with the ongoing expectation of eclecticism mixed with the expected, and as it pertains to graffiti and street art, its a crowded party of all sorts of guests all speaking at once, each hoping to be heard in the din.

And now, here are images from our ongoing conversation with the street, this week, including: Turtle Caps, She Posse, Kosuke James, IAC, Ratrockster, Solo, Merg, Erat, SenOne Original, COSA.V, and Sen1.

Turtle Caps (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Kosuke James (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Kosuke James (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Kosuke James (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Kosuke James (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Sen1 Original. Cosa.V. Tribute to Grandmaster Flash. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
IAC (photo © Jaime Rojo)
ERAT (photo © Jaime Rojo)
She Posse (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified prankster explains the contours of the BORE program. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Ratrockster(photo © Jaime Rojo)
Ratrockster (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Ratrockster (photo © Jaime Rojo)
It Is Mike King (photo © Jaime Rojo)
We can’t read the artist’s signature??? (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Untitled. Spring 2024. NYC. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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A Tribute to Artist Akira Toriyama: Eslicer and Keneone in Barcelona

A Tribute to Artist Akira Toriyama: Eslicer and Keneone in Barcelona

Fans of manga and anime are mourning the loss of a legendary figure in the industry, Akira Toriyama, who passed away on March 1, 2024, at the age of 68. Born in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, he was not just a prolific manga artist; he was a visionary who brought to life some of the most iconic characters and stories in the world of Japanese pop culture. His most renowned creation, “Dragon Ball,” transcended generations and geographic boundaries, embedding itself in global pop culture and inspiring an era of manga artists.

Akira Toriyama memorial wall at the Caterina Albert Square by Eslicer & Keneone. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)

Toriyama’s influence extended beyond the printed page; his creative genius was instrumental in designing the characters for beloved video games like the Dragon Quest series and Chrono Trigger.

By many accounts, he had humble beginnings drawing animals and vehicles, but he eventually had what some would call a revolutionary impact on manga and anime, a testament to the universal language of art and storytelling. Despite facing challenges and opposition, Toriyama’s dedication to his craft and innovative spirit paved the way for his legendary status. The aesthetics and themes of Toriyama’s work, including a fusion of traditional and futuristic elements, resonate with fans of street culture and graffiti, showcasing his widespread influence.

Akira Toriyama memorial wall at the Caterina Albert Square by Eslicer & Keneone. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)

Today we look at a new mural in Barcelona Spain by Eslicer and Keneone, with shots by photographer Lluis Olive-Bulbena. As we remember Akira Toriyama, we celebrate the stories he told and the boundless imagination and creativity he inspired in artists and fans alike, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art and entertainment.

Akira Toriyama memorial wall at the Caterina Albert Square by Eslicer & Keneone. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Akira Toriyama memorial wall at the Caterina Albert Square by Eslicer & Keneone. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Akira Toriyama memorial wall at the Caterina Albert Square by Eslicer & Keneone. Barcelona, Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
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Sebas Velasco and a Night Time Portrait in Beaumont, Texas

Sebas Velasco and a Night Time Portrait in Beaumont, Texas

A coastal city in Southeast Texas, Beaumont is 90 miles east of Houston and 30 miles west of the Louisiana border. At the third Beaumont Mural Festival the debut of the new mural by acclaimed artist Sebas Velasco is a momentous occasion, and we bring you fresh shots of the process and final work. Inspired by his collaboration with longtime friend and photographic collaborator Jose Delou, it’s no surprise that Velasco’s latest piece captures an essence of urban life with depth and emotion, an idealized measure of modern existence against a perhaps less-than-ideal cityscape.

Sebas Velasco. Beaumont Mural Festival 2024. Beaumont, Texas. (photo © Jose Delou)

A youth adorned in classic sportswear, set against the backdrop of a dynamic cityscape, the striking portrayal is based on a local resident who agreed to be the subject of Velasco’s art; somehow, it embodies a fusion of American influence and stoic solitude reminiscent of artists like Hopper. With his attention to detail, Velasco enhances the scene’s post-industrial elements, infusing them with warmth and vibrancy. The immediacy of the gaze holds the viewer accountable, studying it all more closely, wondering what stretches beyond the confines of the mural.

Velasco’s blurred aesthetic warms the night, eschewing traditional photographic realism in favor of a wilder, more dynamic energy. His approach, reminiscent of the gestural abstraction of artists like De Kooning, prepares the scene with rawness and a sense of movement; a mural that not only enriches the cultural landscape of Beaumont but also serves as a testament to the transformative power of public art.

Sebas Velasco. Beaumont Mural Festival 2024. Beaumont, Texas. (photo © Jose Delou)
Sebas Velasco. Beaumont Mural Festival 2024. Beaumont, Texas. (photo © Jose Delou)
Sebas Velasco. Beaumont Mural Festival 2024. Beaumont, Texas. (photo © Jose Delou)
Sebas Velasco. Beaumont Mural Festival 2024. Beaumont, Texas. (photo © Jose Delou)
Sebas Velasco. Beaumont Mural Festival 2024. Beaumont, Texas. (photo © Jose Delou)
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BSA Images Of The Week: 03.17.24

BSA Images Of The Week: 03.17.24

Welcome to BSA Images of the Week!

Happy St. Patricks Day to all our Irish brethren and sisteren (?) — unless you are unlucky to be a gaylesbitrans Irish resident of Staten Island: their official Saint Patty parade bans all of those other types. Our 5th borough always complains that it doesn’t get enough attention because Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx and Queens hog the spotlight. So bigotry, because why not? But Manhattan shouldn’t bray too loudly; we’re old enough to remember the LGBT bans by The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) at the beery 5th Avenue parades for decades.

Grocery stores, big box stores, and McDonald’s are converting customer service to self-service, so why not law enforcement in Brooklyn? On the subway, this dude takes a gun from his attacker so he can shoot him, after another passenger stabbed him in the back. You used to call this vigilante justice, but now it’s just called DIY policing.

And now images from our ongoing conversation Specter, Cern, Homesick, Peter Phobia, Dzel, REW, Folk, Appear 37, BRK. Nover NYC, GUS, Hand of Tess, 1krlOs, Pirdb!, Kool Hand, Croke, Regae, Nova44, and Spyee.

Specter (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Hand of Tess (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Cern (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Homesick (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Folk (photo © Jaime Rojo)
PIRDB! (photo © Jaime Rojo)
FOLK. HOMESICK. PRDB! (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Kool Hand (photo © Jaime Rojo)
CROKE (photo © Jaime Rojo)
REGAE NOVA 44 BRK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
SPYEE REGAE BRK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
APPEAR37 (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Peterphobia (photo © Jaime Rojo)
The Junkmen (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Nover (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Nover (photo © Jaime Rojo)
GUS DZEL REW (photo © Jaime Rojo)
1krl0s (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Untitled. Spring 2024. Manhattan, NYC. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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The Martha Cooper Scholarship: Call For Applicants

The Martha Cooper Scholarship: Call For Applicants

We’re excited to introduce the inaugural Martha Cooper Scholarship (MCS), celebrating Martha Cooper’s legacy in capturing human cultures through photography. This scholarship presents a unique chance for photographers from Africa or Latin America to engage in an eleven-month artistic journey in Berlin.

As founding members of the Martha Cooper Library, we will select an individual who embodies her spirit, vision, and legacy alongside Martha and a panel of experts in art, academia, and photography and the Urban Nation Museum. This is not just a scholarship in her name; it’s an opportunity to contribute to a global dialogue and to represent the Urban Nation Museum and the Fresh Air program. The Fresh Air theme is “I AM FLUX: The Freedom of Being and the Possibilities of Becoming,” reflecting on human transformation and social issues.

If your artistry and vision resonate with these themes, this could be your path to making an impactful statement in documentary photography. Apply for this transformative opportunity to join us in continuing Martha’s story.

______________________________________________

Martha Cooper at Urban Nation Museum (photo ©Steven P. Harrington)

From the scholarship website and application:

The Martha Cooper Scholarship (MCS) offers a unique opportunity for an individual from Africa or Latin America to dedicate themselves for eleven months to an artistic project through the medium of photography. With the newly announced MCS, the Foundation Berliner Leben acknowledges the importance of documentary photography and purposefully offers a production scholarship for professional photographers who use their photography in an effort to promote a positive impact on the world. The scholarship is based on the annual topic of Fresh A.I.R., the scholarship program of Stiftung Berliner Leben, which addresses social and political developments that affect us in the present, and
highlights the diversity of human experience and perception of the world.

__________

The chosen photographer will be invited to live and work in one of our Fresh A.I.R. residencies in Berlin Schöneberg.

The current call is for the 10th class starting in January 2025 and ending in December 2025.

___________

Thematic Call:
“I AM FLUX: The Freedom of Being and the Possibilities of Becoming”

Art can convey the relevance and complexity of themes of our time in unexpected ways.
Under the title “I AM FLUX: The Freedom of Being and the Possibilities of Becoming,« the 10th class
deals with the inexhaustible capacity for development and transformation of human beings and their
perspectives on themselves.


We encourage artists to critically examine selected socially relevant thematic complexes and apply with projects that contribute to raising awareness about the call’s contents and enriching ongoing discourses.

Within the framework of »I AM FLUX,« three thematic fields of action, namely »HORIZONS OF
BEING,« »WHISPERS OF EXISTENCE,« and »BEYOND LIMITS,« are being introduced. Project ideas
will be supported in which at least one of the three thematic focuses finds expression in the artistic works.


1. “HORIZONS OF BEING”
In the first thematic field of action, “HORIZONS OF BEING,” artists and cultural practitioners are invited
to investigate the multi-layered and dynamic nature of gender identity. Through artistic expressions, the
focus is primarily on embodiments, practices, and self-perceptions of people who do not identify with the gender assigned to them at birth.

Funding will be provided for:
• Projects that address the diversity and manifestation of gender identity and/or the development
and shaping of gender possibilities, realities, perceptions, and representations.
• Projects that identify and critically artistically reflect upon the current heteronormative hierarchical
structure of gender, both in its institutional and everyday routine forms.
• Projects that promote a broader conception of gender.


2. “WHISPERS OF EXISTENCE”
The second thematic field of action, »WHISPERS OF EXISTENCE,« is intended to emphasize the
metaphysical dimension of art. The imagination is intended to be challenged and expanded in diverse ways through artistic expression.

Funding will be provided for:
• Projects that place art as a metaphysical activity at the center, addressing and reflecting upon ontological questions.
• Projects that artistically process a transgression of the experiential reality of the natural self.


3. “BEYOND LIMITS”
The third field of action, »BEYOND LIMITS,« serves as a platform supporting the exploration of various
approaches through which art and creativity, in conjunction with other influences, endeavor to redefine
the boundaries of the human in new ways.
Funding will be provided for:
• Projects that aim to experimentally expand human potential or those centered around (self-)creation
within the imaginative space of natural or technological (further) development.
• Projects that examine ‘Creative Artificial Intelligence’ and the fundamentally changing possibilities of
artistic expression resulting from applying the latest technologies.
• Projects that delve into historical forms of surpassing bodily boundaries and explore the visions, opportunities, consequences, and dangers associated with them.


Application for a scholarship in 2025
Application deadline: Sunday, 21 April 2024
Applications are only accepted via Email: FreshAIR-office@stiftung-berliner-leben.de
For a successful application, please include the following documents:
• Curriculum vitae
• Project outline/description
• Budget plan


You can find further information about Fresh A.I.R. at

https://urban-nation.com/artist-in-residence-scholarships/

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Luzinterruptus in Durham: On Blank Pages, Justice  Come to Light

Luzinterruptus in Durham: On Blank Pages, Justice Come to Light

Durham is a historic city located in the northeast of England, known for its medieval cathedral and Norman castle, both of which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s also home to Durham University, one of the oldest universities in England. Here you can enjoy charming cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and a picturesque setting on the River Wear. Rich history and contemporary culture; what’s not to like?

Luzinterruptus. “On Blank Pages”. Lumiere Durham 2023. (photo © courtesy of Luzinterruptus)

In the heart of Durham chilly evening air a new public art installation recently sprouted like a beacon of collective voice and personal expression. “On Blank Pages,” was a brainchild of renowned public artists Luzinterruptus, commissioned by Artichoke for the luminescent tapestry of Lumiere Durham 2023. Known for their signature blend of literary love and interactive engagement, the artists once again wove a narrative that turned passersby into poets, thinkers, and artists.

Luzinterruptus. “On Blank Pages”. Lumiere Durham 2023. (photo © courtesy of Luzinterruptus)

“On Blank Pages” has journeyed through the veins of cities worldwide, but its stint at Lumiere Durham was not just another dot on the map. This one became a monumental dialogue between the public and the pulsating questions surrounding the UK’s judicial system- a thematic choice that bore a bumper crop of words and opinions. The installation – a sprawling wall blanketed with over 2,200 white-sheeted notebooks – stood not just as an art piece but as a testament to freedom of expression, resilience against the elements, and a profound ecological consciousness with its cement-derived paper.

But what truly set the Durham iteration apart was its thematic heart. Diving deep into the labyrinth of the judicial process, prisons, and the remnants of colonial regimes, the project turned a mirror to society’s deepest flaws and silent cries for justice. Workshops across the UK funneled diverse voices into this wall of reflection, creating a tapestry of public opinion that was as raw as it was real. This was not just art for art’s sake; it was a societal pulse check, an open forum where the wind carried whispers of reform, critique, and hope across the illuminated nights of Durham.

The beauty of “On Blank Pages” lies not just in its visual spectacle but in its ability to morph with each contribution – a living, breathing entity that reflects the collective soul. As the public poured their thoughts – the piece transcended its physical form, becoming a monument of shared narratives and unfiltered truths. Durham wasn’t just hosting a festival; it was nurturing understanding and evolution, page by page, voice by voice.

Luzinterruptus. “On Blank Pages”. Lumiere Durham 2023. (photo © courtesy of Luzinterruptus)
Luzinterruptus. “On Blank Pages”. Lumiere Durham 2023. (photo © courtesy of Luzinterruptus)
Luzinterruptus. “On Blank Pages”. Lumiere Durham 2023. (photo © courtesy of Luzinterruptus)
Luzinterruptus. “On Blank Pages”. Lumiere Durham 2023. (photo © courtesy of Luzinterruptus)
Luzinterruptus. “On Blank Pages”. Lumiere Durham 2023. (photo © courtesy of Luzinterruptus)
Luzinterruptus. “On Blank Pages”. Lumiere Durham 2023. (photo © courtesy of Luzinterruptus)

Lumiere Durham is commissioned by Durham County Council. Lumiere London is commissioned by the Mayor of London. Artichoke is a registered charity, funded by Arts Council England.

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BSA Images Of The Week: 03.10.24

BSA Images Of The Week: 03.10.24

Welcome to BSA Images of the Week! Set your clocks forward an hour!

Guess you can’t bite a graffiti artist and expect to make bank – without getting bitten. This new Nekst campaign on the Manhattan streets appears to have Claudia Schiffer and Anna Nicole Smith putting their best face forward, aside from the streams of wrinkles caused by the wet wheat paste. Time is a cruel mistress, even as our nostalgic memories of the 90s are suddenly aflame when seeing these large-scale posters and images on the catwalk named New York.

This takes the fashion labels’ accused theft of Nekst’s tag to a new level – and back to the street, where the best fashion houses traditionally find creative inspiration. The deceased graffiti writer was bold in his command of high-profile spots, and his output was profligate, giving him a reputation that current writers still pay homage to a decade after his passing. With the fashion label Guess, Inc. publicly traded, one wonders if this restyling of their brand in a fashion capital will hit them in the ticker, especially when it appears they directly ripped their style from a self-made artist/vandal and took it to the cash register.

This act highlights the ongoing debate about the street’s raw, authentic creativity and the fashion industry’s appropriation tactics. The situation questions the consequences for a major brand like Guess, primarily when the originality in question stems from the underground art world.

As Daniel Cassady from ARTNEWS and Deborah Belgum from WWD illuminate, the recent uproar in the street art/graffiti community is not merely about the misuse of street credibility but a deeper infringement on street artists’ intellectual and cultural property. Cassady discusses the blatant replication of Nekst’s signature by Guess, bringing to the forefront the fashion industry’s recurrent pilferage from street art’s raw, unfiltered energy without due homage or consent. Meanwhile, Belgum adds a familial and emotional layer, highlighting the distress caused to Nekst’s family by the unauthorized commercialization of his legacy, an act they describe as “horrifying.”

In a city where the lines of art, fashion, and identity blur, these incidents prompt us to question the ethics of inspiration versus theft. As we showcase these charged visuals, we invite our readers to ponder the fine line between tribute and exploitation in the ever-evolving narrative of street art. This is not merely about images on a wall or polished cotton; it’s a testament to the indelible impact of artists like Nekst on the fabric of urban culture and the complexities of their posthumous relationships with the commercial world.

Read more about this fight by clicking these links:
ArtNews, WWD, Hyperallergic

And please enjoy images from our ongoing conversation with the street, this week featuring Stikman, Captain Eyeliner, Bunny M, Homesick, Solus, Nekst, Muebon, Dirt Cobain, Jappy Agoncillo, Outer Source, Samo©, Isabelle Ewing, Lady JDay, John Draw Volta, Toy, Girls Just Wanna Have Funds, Butterfly Mush, and Ash Saint.

NEKST (photo © Jaime Rojo)
NEKST (photo © Jaime Rojo)
NEKST (photo © Jaime Rojo)
A Guess t-shirt featuring what appear to be tags by graffiti writer Nekst for sale on www.iqueens.com (©iqueens)
Ash Saint (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Ash Saint (photo © Jaime Rojo)
JhonDrawVolta rocks the street with boundless imagination. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Stikman (photo © Jaime Rojo)
bunny M (photo © Jaime Rojo)
bunny M (photo © Jaime Rojo)
bunny M (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Solus (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Isabelle Ewing. Girls Just Wanna Have Funds. Butterfly Mush. Lady Jday. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
HOMESICK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Jappy Agoncillo (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Samo© (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Captain Eyeliner (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Captain Eyeliner (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Dirt Cobain. Outer Source. Muebon. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
TOY (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Untitled. SOHO, NYC. March 2024. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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“Unmute Gaza” Dispatch, Artist’s Participate in 83 Cities, 30 Countries

“Unmute Gaza” Dispatch, Artist’s Participate in 83 Cities, 30 Countries

In the midst of ongoing turmoil, the Gaza Strip is engulfed in a conflict that has now stretched into its fifth harrowing month. The escalating violence has led to the tragic loss of over 30,000 lives, including countless children, marking a somber chapter. Amidst this backdrop of sorrow and chaos, a beacon of artistic activism addresses the darkness: Unmute Gaza, a bold initiative melding the worlds of photojournalism and visual art to break the silence surrounding the war’s devastating human toll.

Artist, Raquel Aparicio. Photojournalist, Belal Khaled. (image © courtesy of Unmute Gaza)

Unmute Gaza represents a collective outcry against the indifference of the global community and media. This creative coalition has rallied around the poignant snapshots captured by five courageous Gazan photojournalists: Belal Khaled, Mahmoud Bassam, Sameh Nidal-Rahmi, Saher Alghorra, and Majdi Fathi. These photographers’ raw, unfiltered depictions of life amidst conflict are translated by artists worldwide. The striking images, reimagined as paintings and sketches, serve not only as powerful testaments to the human spirit but also as rallying cries for action and empathy.

Artist, Faith47. Photojournalist, Mahmoud Bassam. (image © courtesy of Unmute Gaza)

Highlighting the intersection of activism and art, the Unmute Gaza movement recently partnered with environmental powerhouse Greenpeace to unveil a compelling piece by renowned artist Shepard Fairey (video below). Inspired by Belal Khaled’s haunting imagery, Fairey’s work—portraying a blood-stained Palestinian child beneath the pleading words “Can you hear us?”—was dramatically displayed at Madrid’s Reina Sofia Museum. This collaboration epitomizes the campaign’s reach and impact, with Unmute Gaza’s message resonating in public spaces across 83 cities in 30 countries worldwide, urging us to confront the harsh realities of war and to amplify the plight of people demanding to be heard.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FILES FOR PRINT FREE OF CHARGE


Greenpeace climbers unfurl an image by Obey based on a photo by photojournalist Belal Khaled. Reina Sofia Museum. Madrid, Spain. January, 24, 2024. (image © Greenpeace/Mario Gomez)
Greenpeace climbers unfurl an image by Obey based on a photo by photojournalist Belal Khaled. Reina Sofia Museum. Madrid, Spain. January, 24, 2024. (image © Greenpeace/Mario Gomez)
Artists, Maverick Mura and Axel Void. Photojournalist, Sameh Rahmi. (image © courtesy of Unmute Gaza)
Artist, Paola Delfin. Photojournalist, Belal Khaled. (image © courtesy of Unmute Gaza)
Artist, Paola Delfin. Photojournalist, Belal Khaled. (image © courtesy of Unmute Gaza)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FILES FOR PRINT FREE OF CHARGE

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Hitnes Finds Poetry in the Evolution of Fishes

Hitnes Finds Poetry in the Evolution of Fishes

Curated by Mirko Pierri of the a.DNA project association

When Evolution Splashes onto School Walls: The E.C.O. Mural Unfolds

Let’s dive into a story where fish climb out of the sea and onto the school walls. Picture this: The Toscanelli Institute in Ostia, Italy, is no longer just a backdrop for mundane school routines. Thanks to the visionary Mirko Pierri of the a.DNA project, this school has turned into an extraordinary canvas that narrates the fascinating tale of evolution, courtesy of the street artist known as Hitnes. This isn’t your everyday science class; this is art making school cool again.

Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution” Ostia-Rome. (photo © Paolo Giannotti)

“The Poetry of the Fishes’ Evolution” is a journey from the ocean’s abyss to the land’s expanse, with Hitnes as our guide. His artwork wraps around the school’s walls like storybook pages, where fish transform into mammals right before our eyes. But there’s a twist – this story is a nudge towards thinking about our environmental impact.

Mirko Pierri puts it brilliantly: “These two architectural facades have… intrigued the students’ gaze who experience them. Now they are a source of curiosity… changing the perspective of those who cross this large courtyard.” Perhaps the new work can spark new conversations and encourage young minds to ponder, all while passing to the next class.

Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution” Ostia-Rome. (photo © Paolo Giannotti)

The E.C.O. project has turned the school into a buzzing hub that goes beyond textbooks. Hitnes’ work, with its echoes of ancient seas and critiques of human intervention, isn’t just for show. It invites the young (and the young at heart) to reflect, question, and discuss.

Director Paola Toto and the surrounding educational community have welcomed this vibrant addition, turning the Toscanelli Institute into a beacon of learning and environmental awareness. Imagine the usual school bell ringing, but instead of a rush to escape, there’s a buzz of students discussing evolution, art, and the environment. Here, you can trace your fingers over the evolution of life on these walls and think about our place in the world – all before the bell rings for your next class.

Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution” Ostia-Rome. (photo © Paolo Giannotti)
Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution” Ostia-Rome. (photo © Paolo Giannotti)
Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution”. Detail. Ostia-Rome. (photo © Mirko Pierri)
Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution”. Detail. Ostia-Rome. (photo © Mirko Pierri)
Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution”. Detail. Ostia-Rome. (photo © Mirko Pierri)
Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution”. Detail. Ostia-Rome. (photo © Mirko Pierri)
Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution”. Ostia-Rome. (photo © Mirko Pierri)
Hitnes. “The poetry of the fishes evolution” Ostia-Rome. (photo © Paolo Giannotti)
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BSA Images Of The Week: 03.03.24

BSA Images Of The Week: 03.03.24

Welcome to BSA Images of the Week!

It’s great to see new pieces appearing on the streets this week, including numerous tributes to our patron renegade Eurasian eagle-owl, the famous Flaco, who escaped from the zoo and spent much time exploring Manhattan in the last year. His fine-feathered life tragically cut down when he flew into a building, it is surmised, Flaco’s life is nonetheless celebrated for his badass breakout in search of freedom. Another famously plumed New Yorker, Iris Apfel, the wealthy showy fashion icon who had wild taste and outstanding clothes, died at 102. You can check out a documentary made about her a few years ago here.

We start with some tributes to Flaco on the street and follow with some other bon mots for you to see.

Here is our weekly conversation with the street, this week including Gane, Calicho Art, Phoebe New York, Beltr, and BAK.

Calicho Art. Detail. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Calicho Art (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Calicho Art (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Flaco’s favorite perch in Central Park. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Memorial in Central Park, NYC for Flaco The Owl. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
BAK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
GANE (photo © Jaime Rojo)
BELTR (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Phoebe New York. Detail. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Phoebe New York (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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