graffiti

What began as an unsanctioned art form that surfaced on NYC streets and subways has since found its way into galleries, auction houses and museums. On view through August 10 at the MCNY is “Above Ground: Art from the Martin Wong Graffiti Collection,” a celebration of graffiti’s transitional moment.

The image featured above, “Broken Wings,” was fashioned with spray paint, acrylic and wood on canvas in 1990 by the now-legendary Bronx-native John “Crash” Matos. What follows are several more highlights of previously unseen art from the late Martin Wong‘s vast collection on view in “Above Ground…”

The late Queens-born visionary and multidisciplinary artist Rammellzee, “Atomic Futurism,” 1987, Acrylic on canvas

Lower East Side native and former Keith Haring collaborator Angel Ortiz aka LA2, “Untitled,” 1988, Acrylic on canvas

Veteran East Harlem stylemaster Delta 2, “Delta 2,” 1984, Spray paint on canvas

The late legendary Brooklyn native Dondi, “Bishop of Battle,” 1985, Spray paint on canvas

The ever-evolving pioneering graffiti artist Futura, “Untitled,” 1983, Acrylic and spray paint on canvas

 Hollis, Queens native Lin “Quik” Felton, “My Recovery,” 1990-91, Acrylic and spray paint on canvas

In addition to works on canvas, “Above Ground: Art from the Martin Wong Graffiti Collection” — curated by Sean Corcoran — also includes: photographs by Martha Cooper and Henry Chalfant, a survey of graffiti tags and an insightful documentary featuring Martin Wong, Daze, Lee Quinones and Sharp.

Located at 220 Fifth Avenue between 103rd and 104th Streets, the MCNY is open Mon-Fri 10-5  |  Sat-Sun 10-6.

Photos of images by Lois Stavsky and Tara Murray

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