A dark, faceless figure shielding its head with a white bandana clutches a rifle, pointing it towards a giant McDonalds symbol that many often associate with obesity. Although the story behind this street art is unknown, female activists in Tehran going on hunger strikes for the violent conditions they’ve faced inside prison cells may be a possible clue. Graffiti artist A1One’s “Hunger from Tehran” is one of the many graffiti pieces featured at “Visual Slang 2008: The Modern Urban Imagination” displayed at Abrons Art Center on the Lower East Side. Curator Lois Stavsky unites artists from Iran to Tel Aviv in one exhibition where tales of survival, despair, and hope from the streets of their war-ridden homelands are revealed.
Immediately upon entering, visitors will be lured in by an “Autumn Venus” a series of enamel portraits based on the goddess of love by local artist Antony Zito. His giant voluptuous lady stares closely with large sad eyes as burning orange hair cascades down her golden beige skin. Smiling-Bag Productions shows a “Madonna and Child from Tel Aviv” where a young mother holds onto her son as they stare at each other against an azure backdrop, their faces covered with gas masks, shielding themselves from the scent of death. Barcelonan artist Pez is also featured with his cheery triple-eyed flying alien, bringing humor to the exhibit of brain-cranking political messages.
Visual Slang 2008 is proof that graffiti isn’t the enemy of a city, but its voice that some wish to prevent from speaking for fear of what it will say.
Visual Slang 2008: The Modern Urban Imagination is on view at the Abrons Art Center Henry Street Settlement til the end of this month. 466 Grand Street New York, NY 10002
Visit www.henrystreet.org for more info.
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ON A SIDE NOTE
Fruition relaunches their website! This season they have collaborated with Stussy, pulling out some of their deadstock that has been boxed up for years! If you’re in Vegas right now for the shows, make sure to stop by. www.fruitionlv.com
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BLOWOUTS IN BABYLON
Tonight is the last Big Bamboo party. Stop by to say your thanks to Linyee and Queen Majesty. Jamaican Ska, Rock Steady, and Rub a Dub and more! 8PM-Midnite! No Malice Palace and Garden. 197 East 3rd Street between Avenue A and B.
Tomorrow, Wednesday, August 27th- The Hump continues with a birthday celebration for Mikey. DJs Thanksgiving Brown and Barthelona, hosted by Jeru the Damaja, Aliya, and Mikey. at Blue Owl.
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