I created Hip-Hop Cubism long before anyone knew who Kanye West was.
To create a style of art that I could call my own, I used my passion for hip-hop culture with the revolutionary Cubism art movement, creating a unique style dubbed “Hip-Hop Cubism.” This designation is not just a title but a reflection of my deep-rooted connection to graffiti and a rigorous academic background in Art Education and a Master of Fine Arts. My journey from the vibrant streets of the Bronx, where hip-hop’s pulse beats strongest, to the halls of academia, where I honed my craft, underscores my passion, innovation, and dedication to the arts.
The emerging hip-hop scene of the 70s and 80s in New York City profoundly influenced my formative years. From my back porch, I watched the IRT #6 train, a canvas on wheels, roll by, carrying the visual symphonies of graffiti that colored the city’s landscape. I found my first muse here amidst the raw energy of breakdancing, emceeing, DJing, and graffiti writing. My early explorations in graffiti, painting subway trains, and learning from legends like SEEN laid the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to the arts.
Transitioning from the streets to the classroom, I pursued my passion for art through formal education, eventually leading me to develop “Hip Hop Cubism.” This innovative style marries the angular disruption of Cubism, pioneered by Picasso, Braque, and Gris, with the vibrant energy and defiance of graffiti art. I explored this idea deeply, producing works that reflect my artistic skills and embody the essence of hip-hop culture’s creative resilience and ingenuity.
My academic journey was not just about personal growth but also about laying a foundation for future generations. Teaching at Lehman High School and pursuing a Master of Fine Arts at Lehman College, I infused my educational endeavors with my passion for hip-hop and art. I spearheaded technology programs that embraced creativity and innovation, empowering students to find their voices in the vast world of art.
By blending the spontaneity and rebellious spirit of graffiti with the structured fragmentation of Cubism, I envisioned a path that connects the past with the present, classical with contemporary. My work not only pays homage to the masters of Cubism but also celebrates the cultural dynamism of hip-hop.
My story is rooted in street art’s authenticity and enriched by academic scholarship. “Hip Hop Cubism” stands as a testament to the power of blending diverse artistic traditions, showcasing how hip-hop continues to influence and redefine the boundaries of art.
