All posts tagged: Steven P. Harrington

Birch Bark, Rosehips, and a Family Affair: Faring Purth’s New Chapter in Mural Form

Birch Bark, Rosehips, and a Family Affair: Faring Purth’s New Chapter in Mural Form

In her latest mural, Faring Purth delivers a powerful reflection on connection, continuity, and the complexity of evolving relationships—a true “Family Affair.” Created in her new home of Berkeley, California, this latest work is a pearl in her artistic journey, reflecting the changing dynamics of her life, which now includes two young children. More than just another mural, it is a living canvas where her personal experiences and creative practice intersect.

Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)

The idea of a “Family Affair” goes beyond the imagery to capture the very essence of Purth’s current process. The presence of her children has transformed her approach to painting, shifting from the solitary, all-night sessions of her earlier career to a more fluid, adaptive rhythm. Their involvement, whether by simply being there or adding their own playful touches, informs the work in surprising ways, adding layers of spontaneity and discovery.

With themes of protection, generational trauma, and natural elements like birch bark and rosehips, the mural becomes a metaphor for the unseen bonds of family. In this exchange, Faring Purth discusses her creative process, the influence of motherhood, and the ways in which her children contribute to her evolving artistic expression.

Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)

BSA: In the past, when sending dispatches from towns near and afar you’ve brought up your mother in passing, a sweet reference, something sweet and brief. This time you are a mother, and your kids are in situ while you paint, and they also paint. How does it feel to have them with you while doing your craft?

Faring Purth: Well, I’ll be honest and say the formal, strenuous, and hyper-focused work is nearly never accomplished with my son and daughter present. The role of Mothering tiny ones is an all-consuming task, as is painting large-scale murals. Neither want you to divert your gaze. But I’ll also say, that becoming a mother has facilitated a level of adaptation and fluidity I never dreamt possible. It really is like getting your Doctorate degree in organized chaos.

The pressure, for me, lead to surrender and invaluable growth… being able to do all I can when I can, allowing my hours of work to adjust to a thousand variables, including sleepless nights, tiny sniffling noses, and the simple act of being barefooted in the grass with them. All of these countless adjustments impact the work enormously. I miss my all-nighters in the studio but they’ll be back, I’m sure. For now, I love the spontaneous bursts of progress I make with the kids, the “beginner’s mind” they undoubtedly inspire, the many ways of involving them, and the support that allows me the ability to still be alone and painting when I need to be.

Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)

BSA: “Birch Bark and Rosehips”: What comes to mind?

Faring Purth: While creating the piece, many experiences unfolded in my own life concerning things like facing generational traumas, coming to terms with past abuse, and protecting myself and the kids in some very literal and some abstract ways.

BSA: This mural seems to be a family portrait. A young mother and her children?

Faring Purth: The reflections are almost never literal. Although I am often surprised at how unintentionally reflective they are. I’d like to believe many artists share that playful relationship with the work.

BSA: Children are often a constant presence in your work. Why?

Faring Purth: Another very honest statement is the work is often a surprise, even to me. I won’t deny that I am inspired by many things but much of it remains like kneading through a mystery, over and over. I will say the oddity and poetry of my own life began early on. I remember the depths of my perceptions at a young age and witness it now in my children. It has my attention often… and reverence.

Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)
Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)
Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)
Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)
Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)
Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)
Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)
Faring Purth. “Birch Bark and Rosehips”. Berkeley, CA. (photo © Faring Purth)
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BSA Images Of The Week: 11.10.24

BSA Images Of The Week: 11.10.24

Well, the world ended this week—again. Yet here we are, still standing, and so are you. It turns out Donald Trump has successfully rallied the resentment of those feeling abandoned by the system, and they now firmly believe he’s their champion. Meanwhile, disbelieving technocrats and exasperated suburbanites are left shaking their heads at the audacity of those who elected this populist strongman. Twice. With another election loss under their belts, will anyone soften their stance enough to find common ground? Probably not. In fact, if everything goes according to plan, they won’t. For some, the longer we keep fighting one another, the better.

Look, the pigeons in New York do not care about all of that noise. As long as those pizza crusts keep coming, bro.

Here’s our weekly conversation with the street, this week featuring: Nick Walker, City Kitty, IMK, JEMZ, STOMP, Yevgeniya Shevchuk, Mendoza, PAR, SNIPE, DZEL, OPTIMO NYC, Lorenzo Masnah, ZOOT, and Iván Argote.

Nick Walker (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Nick Walker (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Nick Walker (photo © Jaime Rojo)
IMK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
JEMZ (photo © Jaime Rojo)
STOMP (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Come on, you know you wanna Stomp, all night…
City Kitty (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Yevgeniya Shevchuk is having androidinal dreams. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Yevgeniya Shevchuk (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Houston is in the house! Mendoza (photo © Jaime Rojo)
PAR (photo © Jaime Rojo)
SNIPE (photo © Jaime Rojo)
DZEL (photo © Jaime Rojo)
OPTIMO (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Masnah is mashing up multiple iterations and references here. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
ZOOT (photo © Jaime Rojo)
“Dang son, those New York pigeons are massive bro!” Iván Argote. “Dinosaur” (photo © Jaime Rojo)

Click HERE to learn more about Iván Argote’s “Dinosaur” which is currently on view at The High Line Park in NYC.

Iván Argote. “Dinosaur” (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Untitled. Brooklyn, NYC. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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Réunion Island’s Evolution: Eko and the Graffiti/Street Art Festival That’s Making Waves

Réunion Island’s Evolution: Eko and the Graffiti/Street Art Festival That’s Making Waves

A place you may not have heard of, Réunion Island has quickly become a remarkable hotspot for urban art, largely due to the Réunion Graffiti Festival. This annual gathering showcases a rich range of talent from graffiti and street art communities worldwide, offering something refreshingly unique for this type of festival.

Eko, the festival’s founder, extends an open invitation: “Come to Réunion, see the artists, see the walls, and the beautiful city.”

Born in 1976 on Réunion Island, Eko began his graffiti journey in 1989, inspired by hip-hop culture and gaining recognition under the tag “Saphir.” As one of the pioneers of graffiti on the island, he collaborated with local crews like SRD (Syndicat du Rap Dionysien) and later joined LSA (Le Syndicat des Artistes). Eko’s creative reach extends beyond graffiti to music and performance, and his time in mainland France deepened his appreciation for Réunion’s vibrant culture, which he was eager to elevate upon his return.

HERA. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)

With respect for his homeland and a vision of global recognition, Eko founded the Réunion Graffiti Festival in 2019. Each year, the festival expands, now including an impressive lineup of international and local artists, community-focused programs, and interactive events for diverse audiences.

HERA. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)

A French overseas department in the Indian Ocean, Réunion is located approximately 679 km east of Madagascar and 175 km southwest of Mauritius. Known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, including the active Piton de la Fournaise, Réunion is home to about 885,700 residents. The island’s unique blend of French, African, and Indian influences is evident in its culture, cuisine, and language, with Réunion Creole widely spoken alongside French. Since 1946, it has been governed as a French region, making it one of the European Union’s outermost regions and a part of the eurozone. This blend of European governance and Creole heritage gives Réunion its distinct identity, celebrated through its music, arts, and now, street art.

EKO. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)

Since its inception, the festival has showcased global talent across graffiti and street art practices, hosting more than 100 artists, including renowned figures from countries such as Germany, Argentina, Spain, the U.S., India, Italy, Japan, Senegal, Switzerland, and Togo. This mix brings a dynamic blend of styles, reinforcing the island’s position as a hub for global urban art.

A key feature is Graff Park in Saint-Denis, a dedicated space for free expression where artists—from beginners to veterans—can experiment and showcase their work. Supported by both public and private funds, the festival emphasizes inclusivity, offering community workshops, recreational activities, and sessions that help budding artists learn techniques and connect with mentors.

EKO. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)

Beyond murals, the festival highlights Réunion’s cultural vibrancy with exhibitions, live music, and dance battles. These programs blend local talent with international flair, complemented by Acts, an outreach initiative that provides regular updates and information on Réunion’s street art scene. This effort helps keep art enthusiasts connected to the evolving urban landscape on the island.

This year, renowned photographers Martha Cooper and Nika Kramer were honored guests, hosting a symposium to discuss their work documenting the hip-hop scene over many decades. New images of Réunion’s street art were captured, and Ms. Kramer conducted interviews with participants, further enriching the festival’s archive and legacy.

Case Maclaim. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
Case Maclaim. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
Case Maclaim. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
PATCHA PAX. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)

From conversation with Nika Kramer, we learn that a young enthusiastic fan of the work of photographer Martha Cooper was not only attending, but participating in the painting of walls this year at the festival. One of the youngest graffiti writers interviewed for BSA, Patcha Pax shares personally his experience here for BSA readers. Afterward is a full interview with the writer by Nika Kramer.

“I knew Martha Cooper before I met her. I had seen a report about her and the 1UP on YouTube, and my mom gave me Subway Art for Christmas 2022. So when I saw that Martha Cooper was coming to the Graffiti Reunion this year, I jumped for joy! My mom signed us up for the conference right away.

I know what Martha Cooper has done so well that during the conference, I answered the questions that Olivier Cachin asked before she did.

I also was very familiar with the 1UP video that was shown.

Meeting her was incredible because I felt as if I was living through her moments with the vandal graffiti artists, especially the 1UP crew. In my mind, I was running with her and them to secretly paint on the subways. It was like touching the real world of graffiti with my fingertips.

I saw that there was still room on the wall.

I saw MC taking a picture of Miaou, so I decided to take a photo of her and reproduce the drawing on the wall. A photograph captures a moment for a lifetime… it was my way of capturing this moment forever. It is painted forever on the wall. And so every time I see this graffiti, I will think back to that moment when MC was there, that she was taking pictures of all of us. And also of the moment when Sally and you were taking a picture of her in front of my Graffiti of her. It brings back a lot of good memories forever.

For MC’s drawing, I think I wanted to please her by drawing her. It was a gift so that she would be happy”
~ PP

PATCHA PAX. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)

Nika Kramer interview with PATCHA PAX:

NK: When did you see graffiti for the first time?
PP: I first saw graffiti when I was 7 years old. I loved it straight away. I had to give a presentation in class and I chose the theme of Graffiti. So I asked Eko LSA by message on Instagram if he would be willing to come during my presentation. He accepted. It was the first time I met him.

NK: How did you get into graffiti
PP: I really got into graffiti when I went to see a graffiti festival for the first time, Le Réunion Graffiti in 2021. I saw all these artists painting on huge walls. I asked Eko if I could have one. He replied “train a lot and one day I promise you that you will have your wall”. The next day, I asked my mom to sign me up for drawing classes. Then I practiced whenever I could on paper and my garden wall.

NK: Why did you start writing PAKS?
PP: For my tag, I wanted a name that meant something positive. I searched for the word “Peace” in all languages. I found “Patcha” in Romani (India I think), “Pax” in Latin, and “PAKS” in Polish. So my name is Patcha Pax but I write it PAKS most often.

NK: What do you love about the graffiti scene in Réunion?
PP: In Réunion, I like the fact that there are many different styles of graffiti. I mainly like the lettering, like that of Arêm and Lego. But I also like certain drawings like those of Macak, Bayko, and Ador.

My mother immediately accepted my passion for graffiti because she always says that she prefers to see me express myself on walls outside rather than sitting for hours in front of a television screen. So she left me a huge wall in the garden to paint whatever I wanted.

My grandparents were not interested in graffiti at all, but now, when they travel, they look for graffiti walls in cities and send me photos. On Sundays, instead of watching television shows about cars, my grandpa watches videos about graffiti with me.

PP: So ! I think I answered all your questions. My vacation is almost over. I go back to school on Monday.

I was very sad at the end of the Réunion Graffiti Festival because it was an incredible week.
In 2 weeks I will be at the Run Colorz festival in St Louis so it will be awesome! I will send you photos if you want. I hope your vacation ended well in Réunion and you liked our island.

PATCHA PAX. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
LAZOO. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
LAZOO. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
LAZOO. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
SATR. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
L1DI1. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
L1DI1. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
MIAOU. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
MIAOU. L1DI1. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)

Nika Kramer interview with MIAOU:

NK: When did you see graffiti for the first time?
M: I discovered graffiti when I was in primary school, a little before the 2000s.The teacher gave us a lesson on prevention against damage, particularly graffiti. It had the opposite effect on me (ha, ha), On my way to school from home I started to spot all the graffiti, (a lot of “kope” tags at the time). But at that time, in Réunion, it was still mysterious. I didn’t understand much about it.

NK: How did YOU get into graffiti?
M: In 2005, a friend tagged it in my school notebook. I was impressed by his hand style, which was brutal, precise, and aesthetic. I immediately felt in love with this universe: since that day, graffiti has taken an important place in my life. I quickly started drawing, meeting people on the scene, testing the equipment, finding spots, and understanding the history behind this movement.

It was a brilliant passion for the teenager that I was: diving into a mysterious universe, where you had to make yourself known while remaining anonymous, where you had to come close to the forbidden just for the sake of painting,… Something to break the monotony of my days!

NK: Why did you start writing Miaou?
M: Miaou was my nickname as a child, so it was quite natural that I decided to use it on the wall. In the end, it’s cool because it’s also a fun and memorable name, which allowed me to stand out to people who aren’t necessarily from the graffiti scene.

NK: What do you love about the graffiti scene in Réunion?
M: The graffiti scene in Réunion is cool because you can paint in flip flops (ha ha)…
More seriously, the scene is constantly active and has nothing to envy from other countries. I find that there is a very good level on the island, regardless if you are getting up illegally or legally, in graffiti or street art. The fact that there are many players around challenges us to improve and to stay in the game. But this competition is healthy, we all know each other.

MIAOU. L1DI1. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
Lokiss. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
Lokiss. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
Manyak. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
Macs. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
Manyak, Macs, and Martha Cooper. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
Manyak. Macs. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
Sitou. Eko. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
Sitou. Eko. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
Sitou. Eko. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
CEET. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)

From an interview with Nika Kramer, Ceet talks about his life in China and how his chicken character developed.

“So the first time I saw graffiti was in about 1983-84. I began painting in 1988, but my participation with the culture before that was break dancing.”
Nika Kramer: How did you get into the chickens?

CEET: My chicken story started 22 years ago in China. I was in Shenzhen. I couldn’t speak Mandarin, and the Chinese couldn’t speak English, so we had a big problem communicating. So I started to draw everything: what I was doing, everything I wanted to eat, everything I wanted to do. I started to draw everywhere. And I communicated like this for the first time.

And then, step by step, I learned Mandarin. And I live in Hong Kong. Why? Because a company brought me to China to do graffiti work. I came one time, two times, three times, and I stayed longer each time. One day I got the apartment and I stayed there and I lived there. It’s very simple. I like to live there because it is amazing. Many people respect me. I learned a lot about how to paint graffiti using brushes, oil, and sculptures, and I started to have very nice connections with the many people there. This is how I matured my art practice and now and I put my chickens everywhere.

CEET. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
CEET. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
CEET. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Martha Cooper)
CEET. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
CEET. L1DI1. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
CEET. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
CEET. Réunion Graffiti. 6th. Edition. Réunion Island, France. (photo © Nika Kramer)
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Transforming Tafí Viejo: Argentina’s First International Street Art Festival in Tucumán

Transforming Tafí Viejo: Argentina’s First International Street Art Festival in Tucumán

The Circuito Mural: Encuentro Internacional de Arte Urbano just wrapped up its first run from October 1 to 5, 2024, in Villa Obrera, Tafí Viejo, Tucumán, Argentina. This aesthetically strong and community-powered event turned the neighborhood into a new open-air gallery, with new murals from 13 artists hailing from across Argentina and as far as Siberia, Russia. The lineup had both fresh talent and seasoned pros, creating a satisfying blend of styles and influences that gives the area a whole new vibe.

Local artist Vero Corrales and her collective, RUIDO, organized the festival with a clear vision: to make Tafí Viejo a street art hub. Their goal is to reflect Tucumán’s unique local history, culture, and natural beauty through the murals. Over five days, the artists didn’t just paint walls—they connected with residents, worked alongside them, and created art that resonated deeply with the people in the neighborhood. Organizers say the event was about cultural exchange, building community pride, and sparking a sense of identity through shared creative work.

Cíclope, Julián, and Pilar (Madariaga, Buenos Aires) painted a mural on a wall of a local school that includes native trees and plants such as the Yellow Lapacho, Bahuinia, and Goat’s Foot. (photo © Matt Fox-Tucker)

Matt Fox-Tucker from Buenos Aires Street Art captured the festival’s grit and color with photos that bring the murals to BSA readers to enjoy. He also shares his insights and knowledge about the genesis of some of these works and the artists who created them. Props to Vero Corrales and her team for pulling off an event that’s more than just paint on walls; a celebration of place, people, and stories, set right in the heart of Tafí Viejo.

RUIDO. (Tucumán, Argentina). The mural portrays 3 girls from the neighborhood of Villa Obrera in Tafi Viejo, Argentina. (photo © Matt Fox-Tucker)

From Matt Fox-Tucker:
“Vero Corrales, from the artistic group RUIDO one of the organizers of the five-day event, said: ‘“’The reason for the festival was to invite some talented street artists to improve the public space while collaborating with the neighbors to put Villa Obrera on the map as one of the best places to see murals in the region or perhaps the country’.”

Coche (Tucumán, Argentina), and Ángel Taboada (Santiago del Estero, Argentina). Tafi Viejo, Argentina. (photo © Matt Fox-Tucker)
Lina Besedina. (Russian-Ukrainian). Tafi Viejo, Argentina. (photo © Matt Fox-Tucker)

From Matt Fox-Tucker:

“The work of art remembers the time of splendor when Tafí Viejo had one of the largest railway workshops in South America and exported lemons to all parts of the world.

Although the industry fell a few years ago, this legacy is still very present in the place almost as if it ran in people’s neighbors, Lina said. ‘I wanted to represent this bond through the arms of a hard-working person whose veins form the train tracks. The gesture of the figure is one of offering, holding a bouquet of the pink lapacho, which is a native tree very loved by the inhabitants of the town. The message I wanted to convey is that although past times cannot return, the persevering and fighting people will always manage to bloom something new and beautiful’.”

Lina Besedina. (Russian-Ukrainian). Tafi Viejo, Argentina. (photo © Matt Fox-Tucker)
Simon Jatip. (Ayacucho, Buenos Aires). Tafi Viejo, Argentina. (photo © Matt Fox-Tucker)
Cuore. (Ayacucho, Buenos Aires). Tafi Viejo, Argentina. (photo © Matt Fox-Tucker)
Soledad Moisas. (Ayacucho, Buenos Aires). Tafi Viejo, Argentina. (photo © Matt Fox-Tucker)

From Matt Fox-Tucker:

“The artist Soledad Moisas paints murals with images of scenes from everyday life and includes typical elements of the cities she visits such as the famous Tucumán empanadas, Gauchito Gil, the Virgin of Lujan, native flowers, and traditional drink bottles.

The event was organized by Vero Corrales, Fernando Gallucci, Leandro Fernández, Mariano Orell, in addition to the help of Florencia Vidal and Lucía Palenzuela.” 

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BSA Images Of The Week 11.06.24

BSA Images Of The Week 11.06.24

Welcome to BSA Images of the Week! Set your clocks back one hour today.

A chilly but warm NYC welcome to the 50,000+ marathon runners from around the globe as they journey through the dirty, potholed streets of all five boroughs in this rudely friendly, alluring, and romantically gritty city. We’ve already forgotten that we lost the World Series this week and are concentrating instead on welcoming our haplessly plodding runners on the street—with raucous cheers in Queens, impromptu bands in Brooklyn, and dancing in the Bronx, the city becomes a big block party today.

Make sure to check out our graffiti and street art on the way!

Also, early voting is in effect in NYC. The new president of the US will be selected, possibly by you.

Here’s our weekly conversation with the street, this week featuring: City Kitty, Homesick, CRKSHNK, Degrupo, Modomatic, Sticker Maul, Leon Keer, Dot Dot Dot, Raddington Falls, D7606, SacSix, Muebon, Werds, RX Skulls, C3, EXR, OSK, She Posse, Outersource, Semz, Silkmoth, Glenn Ligon, Isa De Prez, and All Over Grey.

Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Raddington Falls (photo © Jaime Rojo)
She Posse (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Glenn Ligon gets to the heart of the electorate today (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Leon Keer. “Common Ground” Salina, Kansas. (photo © courtesy of the artist)

“Although different views and opinions are important for a healthy society, we can experience a greater increase in polarization in recent decades, which severely limits bridging or interactions.

In this work I would like to express that we are all connected despite differences in opinion. I see communication with positive sentiment and respect as a good carrier for social connection.” -Leon Keer

DotDotDot. “Liberty Warning The World”. Nuart Festival 2024. Stavanger, Norway. (photo © courtesy of Nuart Festival)

“The idea for the original Statue of Liberty was conceived in 1865, when the French historian and abolitionist Édouard de Laboulaye proposed a monument to commemorate the upcoming centennial of U.S. independence (1876), the perseverance of American democracy and the liberation of the nation’s slaves

Liberty holds a torch above her head with her right hand, and in her left-hand carries a tabula ansata inscribed JULY IV MDCCLXXVI (July 4, 1776, in Roman numerals), the date of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. With her left foot, she steps on a broken chain and shackle commemorating the national abolition of slavery following the American Civil War. After its dedication, the statue became an icon of freedom being subsequently seen as a symbol of welcome to immigrants arriving by sea.

In Dotdotdot’s version, just a few days before the upcoming election, much of whose campaign has been marred by racist and anti-immigrant rhetoric, the torch is replaced by a distress flare. A warning to us all.” ~ Nuart Festival, Stavanger, Norway

Its Mike King (photo © Jaime Rojo)

Check out the Project 2025 page on the Heritage Foundation’s website. The Heritage Foundation initiated Project 2025, which aims to prepare a conservative agenda and policy framework for the next presidential administration in 2025.

CRKSHNK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
CRKSHNK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Sticker Maul (photo © Jaime Rojo)
City Kitty, Muebon, RX Skulls, d7606, C3, and Silkmoth. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Modomatic (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Sack Six presents Old Dirty Bastard and Frank Sinatra (photo © Jaime Rojo)
OSK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
All Over Grey (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Outersource. SEMZ (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Isa De Prez (photo © Jaime Rojo)
WERDS, DEGRUPO, HOMESICK,EXR. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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Happy Halloween From BSA

Happy Halloween From BSA

On any typical Wednesday, New York is a freak show on the subway, streets, in the corner deli. In a good way! This spooky time of year brings a larger allotment of costumes to the streets. Because it is Halloween, these alter egos also brings hidden fears and anxieties to the surface, revealing characters that lie deep within some people.

Only a few days before a US national election that feels pivotal and frightful to many, voters express fear and uncertainty toward both major candidates. In the wooly street art scene, symbols of the underworld reappear and linger year-round, waiting to be uncovered. Here, we present a collection of recent productions, large and small, peppered with quotes to celebrate Halloween.

ENZO (photo © Jaime Rojo)

“Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before.”The Raven, Edgar Allen Poe

Motomichi Namakura (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Scottie Marsh (photo © Jaime Rojo)

“Villainy wears many masks, none so dangerous as the mask of virtue.”The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving

Brozilla (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)

“Hell is empty and all the devils are here.”The Tempest by William Shakespeare

PHETUS (photo © Jaime Rojo)
LEAF 8K (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Humble (photo © Jaime Rojo)

“Even the air here seems to carry death, sweet and crisp and still.”The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Preacher (photo © Jaime Rojo)
NOYS (photo © Jaime Rojo)
T BanBox (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Perspicere (photo © Jaime Rojo)
RX Skulls (photo © Jaime Rojo)
SHOK 1 (photo © Jaime Rojo)

“Ghosts are real, this much I know. There are things that tie them to a place, very much like we do.”Crimson Peak by Guillermo del Toro and Matthew Robbins

JEMZ (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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Innerfields’ New Berlin Mural: A Tribute to Sanctuary, Solidarity, and Remembrance

Innerfields’ New Berlin Mural: A Tribute to Sanctuary, Solidarity, and Remembrance

The newest mural by Innerfields marks a powerful addition to Berlin’s urban cityscape, installed as part of the ONE WALL initiative by Urban Nation. This Berlin-based street art duo, Holger Weißflog and Jakob Tory Bardou, has created a moving tribute to Dorothee and Harald Poelchau, who bravely sheltered those persecuted during the Nazi era. The mural, located on the façade of a Gewobag building in Charlottenburg-Nord, draws on Innerfields’ signature photorealistic style with a blend of surrealist and symbolic elements, visually narrating a story of courage, protection, and human resilience.

Innerfields. ONE WALL Project. Urban Nation Museum Berlin/Stiftung Berliner Leben. Charlottenburg-Nord, Berlin. (photo © Ludger Paffrath/Stiftung Berliner Leben)

Central to the mural are the intertwined hands of Dorothee and Harald, symbolizing the physical and emotional sanctuary they offered to those in need. Dorothee holds a light, a gesture conveying warmth and hope amid adversity, while a menorah placed nearby serves as a poignant reminder of the Holocaust. Lines weave through these elements, subtly representing the network of resistance that the Poelchaus supported, embodying a collective strength defying oppression.

Innerfields. ONE WALL Project. Urban Nation Museum Berlin/Stiftung Berliner Leben. Charlottenburg-Nord, Berlin. (photo © Ludger Paffrath/Stiftung Berliner Leben)

Originally a trio with artist Veit Tempich, Innerfields has painted murals worldwide, from Berlin, Hamburg, and Cologne to Aalborg, Prague, and Hong Kong. Known for tackling themes of human interaction, technology, and environmental consciousness, Innerfields employs a unique fusion of realism, surrealism, and abstraction; theirs is a unique reflection on society’s dynamics. Their work has appeared at prestigious events like Out in the Open in Aalborg and the Wall Street Festival in Prague, as well as in galleries like ATM Gallery in Berlin and 30works Gallery in Cologne.

Here, we see how Innerfields brings historical remembrance into the present, creating a public artwork and a newly living memorial. The project involved students from the Anna Freud School, who engaged with the mural’s themes, enhancing their understanding of resistance and actively participating in Berlin’s evolving culture of remembrance. The mural, initially surprising to some in the community with its bright pink primer, it now appears to resonate deeply with locals, fostering a sense of shared history and identity. It is just the latest showing Innerfields’ commitment to creating meaningful public art that honors the past and inspires the future.

Innerfields. ONE WALL Project. Urban Nation Museum Berlin/Stiftung Berliner Leben. Charlottenburg-Nord, Berlin. (photo © Ludger Paffrath/Stiftung Berliner Leben)
Innerfields. ONE WALL Project. Urban Nation Museum Berlin/Stiftung Berliner Leben. Charlottenburg-Nord, Berlin. (photo © Ludger Paffrath/Stiftung Berliner Leben)
Innerfields. ONE WALL Project. Urban Nation Museum Berlin/Stiftung Berliner Leben. Charlottenburg-Nord, Berlin. (photo © Ludger Paffrath/Stiftung Berliner Leben)
Innerfields. ONE WALL Project. Urban Nation Museum Berlin/Stiftung Berliner Leben. Charlottenburg-Nord, Berlin. (photo © Ludger Paffrath/Stiftung Berliner Leben)
Innerfields. ONE WALL Project. Urban Nation Museum Berlin/Stiftung Berliner Leben. Charlottenburg-Nord, Berlin. (photo © Ludger Paffrath/Stiftung Berliner Leben)
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BSA Images Of The Week: 10.27.24

BSA Images Of The Week: 10.27.24

🎃 Halloween Weekend is Here! 🎃

Most ghouls, goblins, Spidermen, mermaids, Joe Biden Zombies, and P Diddy Daycare Workers made their rounds at parties and trick-or-treat last night. But let’s be honest—the spooky, silly, absurd and ffft-up freaky fun isn’t likely to leave us soon! Costumed characters will be haunting the city all week, building up to the main event Thursday, All Hallows Eve. That’s when the East Village Halloween Parade—a true New York tradition—will bring 100,000 costumed participants and two million spectators into the streets for a wild night of celebration.

In a city that already has a bold and often experimental sense of fashion, Halloween is a chance for New Yorkers to push their creativity to the limit and bring something extraordinary to the street, subway, and club.

Because of the current tenor built and supported dark-money-funded campaigns, most people will tell you they are more afraid of Election Day this year than Halloween.

Stay safe ya’ll!

Here’s our weekly conversation with the street, this week featuring: Blanco, Degrupo, BK Foxx, Clint Mario, Manuel Alegandro, TBanbox, Raphael Federici, Joao Varela, and DZIT.

BK Foxx with East Village Walls. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
BK Foxx with East Village Walls. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Federici (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Joao Varela (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Joao Varela (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Joao Varela (photo © Jaime Rojo)
DZIT (photo © Jaime Rojo)
DZIT (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
TBanBox (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Clint Mario (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
DEGRUPO is challenelling one of Elon’s new robots. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Manuel Alejandro. Blanco. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Untitled. Upstate NY. Fall 2024. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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Pleasant Murals at the Festival d’Arts al Carrer de Calldetenes in Spain

Pleasant Murals at the Festival d’Arts al Carrer de Calldetenes in Spain

The Festival d’Arts al Carrer de Calldetenes (FACC 2024), held in late April, has become a celebrated cultural event in the town of Calldetenes, located about 60 kilometers north of Barcelona. Organized by Associació La Pera with support from the Ajuntament de Calldetenes, this annual event blends various artistic disciplines, but murals are undeniably its centerpiece.

Lily Brick. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)

With a focus on creating an inviting atmosphere, the high quality murals presented at this festival are designed to resonate with the community. Their pleasant and reassuring imagery reflects the festival’s mission to foster an environment of cultural unity and artistic expression. Murals by Lidia Cao, Lily Brick, M. Calde, and Pablo Astrain—some of the more recognized names in the urban art scene—contribute to this welcoming aesthetic. Each year, around a dozen or more artists, both emerging and established, participate, bringing a sense of creative vitality to the streets of Calldetenes.

This festival is unique not just because of the murals but also for its broader cultural appeal, which includes music performances, circus acts, artisan markets, and more. It’s a family-friendly event that draws locals and visitors alike, offering them a chance to engage with the town’s artistic and cultural spirit.

Lily Brick. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)

Special thanks to Lluis Olive Bulbena for once again contributing his photography to capture these murals and for making the trip to this charming town to document the vibrant street art scene. His dedication continues to provide us with stunning visuals that bring the essence of this festival to life.

INK. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Lidia Cao. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Lidia Cao. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Elisa Pons. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Pablo Astrain. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Clara Teixidor. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
Clara Teixidor. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
M Calde. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
M Calde. Carrer de Calldetenes 2024. Spain. (photo © Lluis Olive-Bulbena)
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Lapiz Paints “Rainbow Nation” in Paderborn, Germany

Lapiz Paints “Rainbow Nation” in Paderborn, Germany

Lapiz, known for his poignant social commentary through street art, has once again made his mark with Rainbow Nation, a striking new mural at the Secret City Festival in Paderborn, Germany. This time, he tackles the urgent issues of division, intolerance, and the rising tide of far-right ideology sweeping across Europe. In response, Lapiz turns to the colors of the LGBT rainbow flag to create a mural that speaks of unity, diversity, and democracy.

Lapiz portrait of Mr. Leeroy Matata. Rainbow Nation. Secret City Festival. Paderborn, Germany. (photo © Dirk Rellecke)

The piece is built around the portraits of four German citizens, each chosen for their significant contributions to society. Using his signature halftone stencil technique, Lapiz has masterfully woven their faces into fingerprints—a clever metaphor for individuality and the unique, positive impact these figures have on the world. The mural celebrates the idea that no matter where we come from, what we believe, or who we love, our human rights are the same.

Lapiz portrait of Ms. Margot Friedländer. Rainbow Nation. Secret City Festival. Paderborn, Germany. (photo © Dirk Rellecke)

From top to bottom, the mural features:

  • Leeroy Matata, a former wheelchair basketball player turned influencer, whose powerful presence in social media challenges perceptions of ability and inclusion.
  • Margot Friedländer, a Holocaust survivor and public advocate, a living testament to resilience and a voice for remembrance in these troubling times.
  • Tessa Ganserer, one of the first trans women in the German parliament, a symbol of progress and the ongoing fight for gender equality.
  • Mai Thy Nguyen-Kim, a chemist and science journalist, who has become a trusted voice in Germany, promoting scientific literacy and combating misinformation.
Lapiz portrait of Ms. Tessa Ganserer. Rainbow Nation. Secret City Festival. Paderborn, Germany. (photo © Dirk Rellecke)

The mural’s message of equality and solidarity comes at a critical moment as Lapiz calls attention to the political shifts threatening democracy in Germany and beyond. Painted in the heart of Paderborn, this vibrant artwork stands as a reminder that resistance can be bright and cheerful – and that art has the power to inspire and galvanize change.

Lapiz’s journey, from the streets of Dunedin to the walls of Hamburg and Buenos Aires, is meant as a testament to his belief that art should reflect our times and challenge the status quo. Rainbow Nation is a bold statement, not just for the Secret City Festival but for anyone who believes in the power of unity and the strength of diversity.

Lapiz portrait of Ms. Mai Thy Nguyen-Kim. Rainbow Nation. Secret City Festival. Paderborn, Germany. (photo © Dirk Rellecke)
Lapiz. Rainbow Nation. Secret City Festival. Paderborn, Germany. (photo © Dirk Rellecke)
Lapiz. Rainbow Nation. Secret City Festival. Paderborn, Germany. (photo © Dirk Rellecke)
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BSA Images Of The Week: 10.20.24

BSA Images Of The Week: 10.20.24

Welcome to BSA Images of the Week!

New York is slamming, as ever, when it comes to new street art and graffiti popping up in expected and unexpected places. Here’s our weekly conversation with the street, this week featuring: The Yok, Sheryo, Lexi Bella, Calicho Art, Humble, IMK, Manuel Alejandro, EXR, Zoot, Great Boxers, Thobekk, Aaron Wrinkle, OTOM, Poor Rupert, Paige Bowman, Elena Ohlander, MUSKA, Motomichi Nakamura, and TABBY.

Thobekk (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Thobekk (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Humble (photo © Jaime Rojo)
“Crows before hoes” is a twist on the phrase “bros before hoes,” meaning that loyalty to friends or one’s crew comes before romantic or sexual relationships. It’s often used in subcultures like street art to emphasize the importance of solidarity and loyalty among peers. IMK (photo © Jaime Rojo)
ZOOT MUSKA (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Motomichi Nakamura (photo © Jaime Rojo)
TABBY (photo © Jaime Rojo)
TABBY (photo © Jaime Rojo)
A portrait of Grand Master Flash by OTOM (photo © Jaime Rojo)
George Spencer, aka Great Boxers, just opened a show with street artist Modomatic at Arty Goodness Friday night. 77 Washington Ave. Brooklyn NY (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Poor Rupert (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Poor Rupert (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Lexi Bella (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Calicho Art and Manuel Alejandro (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Calicho Art and Manuel Alejandro (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Paige Bowman for East Village Walls. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
The Yok and Sheryo posters. (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Aaron Wrinkle (photo © Jaime Rojo)
LOVE (photo © Jaime Rojo)
New York is Red Hot. Jake El Diablo (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Elena Ohlander (photo © Jaime Rojo)
EXR (photo © Jaime Rojo)
Unidentified artist (photo © Jaime Rojo)
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Fabio Petani : Nature-Inspired Mural for Oulu, Finland’s Bid for European Capital of Culture 2026

Fabio Petani : Nature-Inspired Mural for Oulu, Finland’s Bid for European Capital of Culture 2026

As part of Oulu, Finland’s preparations to become the European Capital of Culture in 2026, Italian street artist Fabio Petani has created a stunning new mural titled Ferrous Sulfate, Achillea Millefolium & Lathyrus Palustris in this city that blends cutting-edge technology, a vibrant cultural scene, and scenic natural surroundings. This work, commissioned by Upeart and curated by a selection committee from over 500 artists, highlights Petani’s signature style—one that blends natural elements with chemical compositions to symbolize the environment’s delicate balance.

Fabio Petani. FERROUS SULFATE,, ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM & LATHYRUS PALUST. Oulu, Finland. (photo courtesy of the artist)

“Each detail in the mural was inspired by photographs I took during my time in Oulu, which were then adapted into a composition that captures the essence of the area’s natural beauty,” says Petani.

Fabio Petani. FERROUS SULFATE,, ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM & LATHYRUS PALUST. Oulu, Finland. (photo courtesy of the artist)

Located near the Oulujoki River, a key inspiration for the piece, the mural features local flora like Achillea Millefolium and Lathyrus tuberosus, each chosen for their symbolic representation of the city’s resilience and cultural roots. This mural’s vibrant colors drawn from nature and its harmonious design are stylistically consistent with Petani’s other works, which often merge scientific and botanical themes to reflect a deeper connection between nature and urban spaces. As Oulu prepares for its cultural milestone, this mural serves as tribute to the city’s natural beauty and the community’s enduring spirit.

Fabio Petani tells us, “This piece is more than just decoration; it is a lasting tribute to the city, preserving the spirit of Oulu’s nature for future generations.”

Fabio Petani. FERROUS SULFATE,, ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM & LATHYRUS PALUST. Oulu, Finland. (photo courtesy of the artist)

FERROUS SULFATE,, ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM & LATHYRUS PALUSTRIS, Fabio Petani

Oulu 2026 European Capital of Culture, Upeart

@fabiopetani@oulu2026official @upeart @joropoika @ollifoo

UPEA Finland 2018, A Cross Country Installation of Quality Murals

BSA + UPEA in Finland


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