One week from his debut solo show in New York, internationally known Street Artist Jef Aerosol showed his love for NYC with a large stencil tribute to one of Street Art’s recognized inspirations, Jean-Michel Basquiat. From some of the newest kids on the scene to guys like Aerosol, who has about 30 years in the game, it’s remarkable how Basquiat’s artistic legacy has such magnetism and a clout across the field.

Setting up the first piece of stencil with the Empire State Building in the background. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Click on any image to see a larger version. All images copyrighted by Jaime Rojo.
For the first piece he’s done since arriving in the city this week, Aerosol picked an elevated roof spot a short walk from the location where the graffiti-influenced expressionist painter had his studio in Brooklyn. About 3 meters high and 4 wide, the three-layer stencil didn’t give him much trouble since there wasn’t much wind on the roof.
On a partially sunny day that was pretty mild for NYC in January, Aerosol seemed stunned by the experience at one point. “I’ve painted in many cities around the world, but there are only a couple that can move me in such a way as New York does. Even while I was creating this piece today, my mind was wandering and I was reflecting on how really luck I feel to be here, ” remarked Aerosol.
Maybe that is why he picked one of Basquiat’s quotes to write alongside the portrait, “I don’t think about art when I’m working. I try to think about life.”

A little extra up top makes it drip in that way people are rocking right now. Jef Aerosol (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Using his trademark colors and the red arrow, Aerosol seems to have updated his signature style with a fair amount of dripping paint this time out.
“All Shook Up”, Aerosol’s show at Ad Hoc Gallery will be next Friday. More details HERE.
Other Articles You May Like from BSA:
When you hear the name of Street Artist Don’t Fret you can be assured that he means exactly the opposite. Exposing random and selected people’s faults, foibles, and fraternizing habits is just a way t...
Welcome the first BSA Images of the Week of 2022! How are you feeling? You’re looking great! The street art parade marches on, perhaps ever clearer in its intent to reflect the mood, the zeitg...
Modern primitive expressionist Manuel García Fernández AKA ‘El Nolas’ was born in the mid-90s here in Oviedo, Spain. Now his autobiographical mixed-technique perspective is taking over some large pub...
Freezing cold on the streets today, warm hearts nonetheless. We thank BSA readers for all of your love and send it back to you today and every day. JPS (photo © Jaime Rojo) Love Spray (photo © J...
The Biennale of Urban Art in Lille, in the north of France continues at a relaxed pace with new pieces including a new window pane reflective moment by the French-Austrian stencil couplt Jana & JS...