NYC Graffiti Legends Tell All

Bad Monkey Designs would like to take a moment to recognize a “great” in the world of graffiti art. May we present to you Frank Gerard Godlewski, to whom we must pay some beastly homage. Mr Godlewski is the curator of an historic Graffiti art exhibition and charity auction entitled NYC Graffiti Legends Tell All. This exhibit features the work of the “first generation” of New York street artists, Lava I & II, Bama, StayHigh 149, Flint 707 and Mico.

Not only is he Curator and former graff artist, but his point of view on graffiti is one that we, here at Bad Monkey, strongly share. Why is it that graffiti is being sold at auctions for hundreds of thousands of dollars, when the street artists are still considered criminals? Not only have these first generation artists been almost forgotten, they continue to be persecuted for their artwork. Godlewski told the press, “We have to make a reconciliation with graffiti....It's one of our most important art forms.” We couldn't agree more. This form of art is unique, and one that should be celebrated openly! Why should artists have to hide their talent? Because the canvas is wrong? Says who?!?

One of the “first generation” crew, now a middle-class grandfather, found out that his wife had a terminal disease. His first reaction was to do what consoled him – spray art. And he did. The police already knew his tag, tracked him down and arrested him. His wife died while he was incarcerated. Is this expressive outlet truly deserving of such a punishment??

According to Godlewski graffiti is: “OURS — we’re a part of it. Out here in the suburbs, we’re the commuters who ride the painted trains. We’re all a part of the movement.” We ARE part of a movement. It's not a small movement, either. We're proud to be a part of it, and so should you be.

Art is Not a Crime!

To read the article that inspired today's post, click here. 

Bad Monkey Designs

Graffiti Inspired Urban Wear and More
www.bmdez.com