Street Stories: Unpacking the Legacy of Martin Wong and the Rise of Graffiti Art

From Subway Tunnels to Museum Walls: Graffiti's Evolution

Graffiti, once relegated to the shadows of New York City's subway tunnels, has emerged as a powerful force in the art world. This vibrant art form has profoundly impacted urban culture and artistic expression, making its way from the streets to the hallowed halls of galleries and museums.

Exploring the Impact of Martin Wong: A Visionary Artist and Collector

Join a captivating panel discussion exploring the indelible impact of Martin Wong, a visionary artist and collector. Wong played a pivotal role in preserving graffiti's legacy, particularly through his extensive collection, which was instrumental in bringing this dynamic art form into the mainstream.

His collection provides a unique window into a vibrant subculture of young creators and highlights previously unseen treasures. As Sean Corcoran, Senior Curator of Prints and Photographs at MCNY, notes, "Wong's collection serves as a vital historical record, showcasing the raw energy and creativity of the early graffiti movement."

A Panel of Experts: Deconstructing Graffiti's Social and Political Significance

Moderated by Hrag Vartanian, Editor-in-Chief of Hyperallergic, the panel features prominent voices in the art world: artist Lee Quiñones, a pioneer of the subway art movement; Wendy Olsoff, Co-Founder of PPOW Gallery, which represents the Wong estate; and Sean Corcoran. Together, they will dissect the social and political forces that fueled graffiti's rise and its ever-evolving influence.

Lee Quiñones: A Pioneer of Subway Art

Considered one of the most influential figures to emerge from the New York City subway art movement, Lee Quiñones transitioned from painting subway cars to canvases, bridging the gap between street art and the established art world. "I saw the subway as a moving canvas," Quiñones reflects, "a way to bring art directly to the people." His work has graced prestigious institutions like MoMA and the Whitney.

Wendy Olsoff: Championing Wong's Legacy

Wendy Olsoff and PPOW Gallery have been instrumental in preserving and promoting Martin Wong's work since his passing. Their dedication has ensured that Wong's vision continues to inspire new generations of artists and art enthusiasts. "We're committed to ensuring that Martin's contribution to art history is recognized and celebrated," Olsoff affirms.

Event Details: An Evening of Art and Discussion

Join us on Monday, March 10th, at 7 pm at the Museum of the City of New York for this engaging exploration of graffiti art and Martin Wong's legacy. Arrive early at 6 pm to explore the exhibition, Above Ground: Art from the Martin Wong Graffiti Collection. Tickets are $25, with a discounted price of $10 for Hyperallergic Members. This event is a collaboration between the Museum of the City of New York and Hyperallergic.