Museum of Graffiti, the leading contemporary art museum in Miami’s Art District of Wynwood, is celebrating a milestone anniversary of 5 years on December 4 – 6, 2024 with a hand-selected group of partners guaranteed to serve up an experience in culture that Miami has never seen.
Highlights include panel discussions, live performances, limited edition releases, and culinary experiences curated by CookUnity. Don’t miss the private collectors’ preview, a public opening featuring Rahzel, and a thought-provoking panel on “Global Hip Hop Culture Born in Miami.” Additional activities include live tattooing, single-line portraits, rap battles, and exclusive listening parties.
In line with its mission to share the power of expression, spark wonder, and inspire creativity for and about the graffiti art movement, Museum of Graffiti has tapped Rolling Loud for an official partnership guaranteed to pair audio with the visual art that spans 3 different exhibitions in separate buildings that are all connected via an interactive patio that will be home to the Spotify Artists’ Lounge. The three solo exhibitions are CEY ADAMS’ Departure: 40 Years of Art & Design, TRISTAN EATON: Women of Marvel, and SLICK: MIA.
This milestone event showcases the evolution of graffiti art while celebrating the Museum’s mission to inspire creativity and highlight graffiti’s cultural significance.
The Weeknd has announced the release of a special edition vinyl LP for Hurry Up Tomorrow, featuring exclusive artwork by celebrated Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama. Known for his hyper-realistic and futuristic depictions of robots and humanoid hybrids, Sorayama has once again partnered with The Weeknd, this time incorporating a unique twist on his iconic style to complement the album’s rebirth theme.
Sorayama’s influence spans art, fashion, and pop culture, blending eroticism with sci-fi elements, and his collaborations with cultural icons like George Lucas and Christian Dior have cemented his status as a leader in Japanese contemporary art. In this latest collaboration, Sorayama adapts his renowned aesthetic slightly to align with the thematic exploration in Hurry Up Tomorrow.
The limited-edition vinyl will be available for purchase exclusively for 72 hours, beginning at 9 a.m. PT on November 13 at theweeknd.co/HurryUpTomorrow. The collectible release offers fans a rare piece of art-meets-music history, bringing together The Weeknd’s vision with Sorayama’s futuristic touch for a unique addition to any vinyl collection.
Today, Chance the Rapper unveils his latest single “3,333” is now available on all digital streaming platforms. The track finds Chance at his most introspective, reflecting on his career journey, from humble beginnings to performing on the world’s biggest stages. With its deeply personal lyrics and candid storytelling, “3,333” offers fans a glimpse into Chance’s mindset as he navigates the highs and lows of his musical path.
Adding a unique and heartfelt touch to the release, the single’s artwork was created by Chance’s 8-year-old daughter, Kensli Bennett. The vibrant and playful illustration captures a joyful, musical world, featuring swirling colorful notes around a central figure, her father. Kensli’s imaginative design brings a sense of innocence and family collaboration to “3,333,” making it a truly special release.
Phillip Leeds, a mainstay within the music and fashion industries puts a stamp on the past eight years of some of the world’s most influential figures with this new photo archive of celebrity portraits. Over 500 color Polaroid pictures of household names grace the new installment, courtesy of Blurring Books, the independent Brooklyn-based publisher.
During Paris Fashion Week, Leeds recently gave fans a preview of BIG SHOTS!! Volume 2. The Big Shots!! author and photographer continued his partnership with lifestyle brand Pleasures by signing books and hosting the week-long pop-up in Le Marais-Paris 4éme. He will host a launch party on August 23rd at Paper Work in Los Angeles with Pleasures. NYC and other dates to be announced soon.
In 2017, Phillip Leeds released the critically-acclaimed & wildly popular book BIG SHOTS! (Rizzoli) Described at the time as capturing a generation of artists and celebrities just as Andy Warhol: Red Books defined a previous era. Shot by Phillip with a unique vintage Polaroid camera called The Big Shot, the book offered a visual who’s who from the worlds of art, music, fashion and popular culture from 2004 through 2016. Volume 1 featured Rita Ora on the cover and contained over 400 portraits including global icons such as Lewis Hamilton, JAY-Z, Beck, Pharrell Williams, Andre Leon Tally, A$AP Rocky, Black Thought, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, David Byrne, Jeff Koons, Justin Timberlake and Snoop Dogg.
Now, in partnership with Blurring Books, Leeds is set to release BIG SHOTS!! Volume 2: More Shots from the Worlds of Music, Fashion and Beyond, a new collection of photographs that captures the faces from the epicenter of culture. A compilation of previously unpublished work, Phillip has continued documenting some of the biggest names in popular culture as well as behind-the-scenes tastemakers and influencers. BIG SHOTS!! Volume 2 offers more than 500 color Polaroid portraits. The book features GRAMMY award winner SZA on the cover, plus foreword by global music and fashion icon, and multi GRAMMY winner Pharrell Williams. This volume includes portraits of Chris Rock, Lee “Scratch” Perry, James Lipton, Brian “KAWS” Donnelly, Dave Grohl, George Clinton, Sister Nancy, Q-Tip, Snoop Dogg, Ari Melber, John David Washington, Mike Ness, Ndaba Mandela, Megan Thee Stallion, Swizz Beatz & Alicia Keys, plus countless others.
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Private Gallery is excited to announce the opening of “Urban Latino,” a vibrant and powerful exhibition showcasing the dynamic world of graffiti and contemporary art from across Latin America and the United States. Presented by Lalo Tequila and guest curated by renowned artist Joan Jimenez, professionally known as ENTES, this exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Latin American regions through the eyes of visionary artists.
Graffiti, often viewed as a rebellious art form, finds its most profound expressions in Latin America, serving as a canvas for storytelling and cultural commentary. The artists featured in “Urban Latino” have a history of democratizing art by creating masterpieces on public walls, making their work accessible beyond traditional galleries and museums. This exhibition brings these artists’ private studio creations into the gallery, blending bold colors and striking imagery to address themes of identity, resistance, and unity.
Visitors will be transported from the bustling streets of Lima to the vibrant neighborhoods of Bogotá and even to the local scenes of Hialeah, experiencing the energetic spirit of Urban Latino. The exhibition not only celebrates the remarkable talents of contemporary artists but also honors the enduring legacy of Latin American pioneers in the graffiti art movement. Featured artists include trailblazers such as Lady Pink,John “CRASH” Matos, Erni Vales, and Carlos “Mare” Rodriguez, as well as a new generation of Miami-based talents like Ras Terms, Entes, Vic Garcia,Gustavo Oviedo, and Jenny Perez.
In continuation of the 20th anniversary celebration of MF DOOM and Madlib’s groundbreaking collaboration, Madvillainy, the MF DOOM estate and Madlib have teamed up with Super7 to present a reimagined Madvillainvinyl action figure, along with an exclusive merch and apparel capsule. The figure and capsule will be on sale from Monday, August 5th at 11:00 AM ET through Wednesday, August 7th at 11:59 PM ET at Gasdrawls.com.
The SuperSize Madvillain figure, the first music-related SuperSize character for Super7, is a 16” tall, 16” tall, poseable vinyl collectible inspired by Hip Hop supergroup Madvillain’s animated comic-book-come-to-life music video “ALL CAPS.” It features premium soft vinyl construction with articulation at the neck, shoulders, waist, and ankles, and includes a soft goods trench coat (non-removable). Retailing for $295, this SuperSize Madvillain figure is ready to make a big impression in your collection.
With updated artwork from the original artist, James Reitano, the Madvillain character is also brought to life through its new packaging art, as well as an exclusive merch & apparel capsule. The capsule collection also features new shirts, sweatshirts, caps, stickers, a skate deck and more. Launching at 11:00 am EST on August 5 and only available through 11:59 pm EST on August 7, the figure and capsule collection are a strictly limited engagement.
One of Hip-Hop’s most beloved anti-heroes, the ever-inventive MF DOOM received widespread praise for his sharp, candid rhymes, as well as his choppy, sample-heavy production style. He joined forces with legendary producer Madlib and under the name Madvillian the supergroup went on to release their critically acclaimed album Madvillainy in 2004.
Last week, Chance the Rapper hosted an immersive multi-sensory art experience, Writings on the Wall, in New Orleans, offering fans a unique and immersive experience to preview his new unreleased music. Held in the Black-owned art space StudioBe, the event allowed fans to connect with the music and lyrics on a profound level. Each attendee received their own headphones and oversized bean bag for a private listening experience, while lyrics and videos for 12 unheard Chance songs were projected on the walls to accompany each record. This unique experience is far from a silent disco as the floors were shaken with four SRX918S 2,500-watt 18-inch subwoofers, enabling attendees to physically feel the music. Phones were not allowed, encouraging full presence. Fans were also given notebooks to jot down thoughts and questions, followed by a live Q&A with Chance, who shared insights about the new tracks.
In addition to the listening session, the event featured artwork from previous releases, lyrics, and videos, creating a comprehensive and immersive artistic environment. This multi-sensory approach provided attendees with a deeper connection to Chance’s music and artistic vision. Adding to the evening’s excitement, legendary rapper Juvenile attended the event, further elevating the experience. In a video captured, Juvenile praised Chance for the innovative concept, highlighting the respect and admiration Chance commands within the hip-hop community.
Following the success of several Writings on the Wall events around the country, including Chicago and Atlanta, Chance the Rapper is thrilled to announce that it will also be coming to Washington, D.C., on August 8th at an undisclosed location. Fans in D.C. can look forward to the same intimate and engaging experience. More details and dates in new cities to be revealed soon.
Chance has been carefully curating all aspects of his Star Line project, alongside its interdisciplinary companion, Star Line Gallery. This unique project seamlessly blends the realms of art, music, and cinematography, presenting a collection of collaborative works with esteemed fine artists from The Continent and The Diaspora. The resulting pieces redefine the notion of ‘album art’ and are compelling conversations and meditations on Black life. Star Line Gallery works “Child of God” (collaboration with Gabonese artist and painter Naïla Opiangah), “A Bar About A Bar” (collaboration with Chicago-based painter Nikko Washington and filmmaker Troy Gueno), “The Highs & The Lows” feat. Joey Bada$$ (collaboration with Gabonese photographer Yannis Davy Guibinga), and “YAH Know” (collaboration with Chicago-based visual artist Mía Lee) have been showcased at art institutions around the world including Expo Chicago, Art Basel, Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), The Art Institute of Chicago, and Los Angeles’ Museum Of Contemporary Art (MOCA).
Hip-hop culture has long been synonymous with flashy, extravagant jewelry, and now, some of the most iconic pieces worn by hip-hop legends are set to be showcased in an unexpected venue – New York’s American Museum of Natural History (AMNH).
Scheduled to open on May 9th, the exhibition titled “Ice Cold: An Exhibition of Hip-Hop Jewelry” promises to be a dazzling display of bling and craftsmanship. Among the highlights are the gem-encrusted crown worn by Slick Rick, the legendary gold “Jesus piece” of the Notorious B.I.G., and Nicki Minaj’s sparkling “Barbie” pendant.
Guest curator Vikki Tobak emphasizes the significance of jewelry in hip-hop culture, noting its evolution alongside the rise of the genre itself. “From being a culture formed in communities and neighborhoods, and then stepping into its power and starting to impact global pop culture, hip-hop and its jewelry tell a bigger story,” Tobak said.
The exhibition, housed in the AMNH’s Melissa and Keith Meister Gallery within the new Allison and Roberto Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals, is a departure from the museum’s traditional focus on natural history. Known for its extensive displays on science and nature, including dinosaur skeletons and life-size animal exhibits, the AMNH is venturing into new territory with this showcase of hip-hop’s cultural impact.
The museum’s decision to host such an exhibition underscores the significance of hip-hop as a cultural force, especially in its birthplace of New York City. Last year marked the genre’s 50th anniversary, highlighting its enduring influence on music, fashion, and art worldwide.
Admission to the exhibition is included with general museum admission, ranging from $16 to $28 for visitors. With hip-hop jewelry taking center stage in one of New York’s most iconic cultural institutions, “Ice Cold” promises to be a must-see event for fans of both hip-hop and jewelry alike.
T’yanna Wallace Honors The Notorious B.I.G.’s Legacy with “The Biggie Experience” Museum Opening Today!
In the heart of Brooklyn, NY, the spirit of the legendary rapper, The Notorious B.I.G., lives on through the vision of his daughter, T’yanna Wallace. Today, she celebrates the grand opening of “The Biggie Experience,” the first and only museum dedicated to her father’s iconic legacy.
As a successful entrepreneur and fashion enthusiast, T’yanna has made her mark in the world by keeping her dad’s name alive through her innovative business ventures, notably her “Notoriouss Brand.” Now, with the unveiling of “The Biggie Experience,” she takes her commitment to preserving her father’s memory to new heights.
The museum, located just blocks away from the famed Barclays Center in Brooklyn, stands as a testament to Biggie’s enduring influence and impact on hip-hop culture. Curated by the Atlanta based creative agency AK-08 Collaboration, a creative experiential marketing collective, and lead Brooklyn Artist / Designer Greg “Rich Bizarre” Simmons, “The Biggie Experience” features eight interactive exhibits that offer guests a journey down memory lane. The Exhibit Build Out and Design was lead by Rich Bizarre— the man behind some amazing art installations we all may be familiar with. Within 1 month, T’yanna Wallace’s store, formally known as ‘Notoriouss’ in the heart of Brooklyn, was completely transformed into what we now can enjoy as “The Biggie Experience”.
From a peek into “Biggie’s Apt” to a look at artifacts on the “Legacy Display” and the vibe of the famous “Cornerstore Freestyle,” visitors will immerse themselves in the life and music of The Notorious B.I.G. Krystal “KG” Garner, co-founder of AK-08 Collaboration, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to be part of this momentous occasion, fusing our passion for creativity with the iconic legacy of Notorious B.I.G.”
Today’s opening marks a significant milestone, commemorating the 27th anniversary of Biggie’s passing. The museum is set to open to the public on March 9th, 2024 and Rich Bizarre reveals it was worth all the work. “Doing this project really hit home for me! B.I.G. was the one that truly made me fall in love with Hip Hop, he was the soundtrack to my life in the 90s. I’m extremely honored to had been apart of this, and to have T’yanna trust us with this vision! It really takes a village it’s no way I could have done this with out the AK-08 team Lead by Krystal Garner, & my brother G Nice grinding it out with me everyday of that month getting this build out together—Now the world can come enjoy this piece of history. Brooklyn we did it!!!”
For T’yanna Wallace, “The Biggie Experience” is not just a museum; it’s a tribute to her father’s enduring legacy. Through her clothing line, Notoriouss, she has kept her dad’s memory alive for over a decade, and with this new venture, The Notorious B.I.G. will continue to remain timeless.
Reflecting on her inspiration for the museum, T’yanna shared, “I started the museum because I want my dad’s fans as well as people who aren’t as familiar with who he is to REALLY get to know ‘BIGGIE’ on a musical & personal level by having access to an intimate experience. Reading about him on paper is cool, but a visual museum would make people want to connect in person.”
Today, as “The Biggie Experience” opens its doors to the world, T’yanna Wallace celebrates her father’s legacy and invites fans to immerse themselves in the life and music of one of hip-hop’s greatest icons.
This Art Basel Miami week, the Museum of Graffiti is set to release three exclusive collaborations with today’s top artists. These highly anticipated drops will each take place inside the Museum’s world renown gift shop prior to being made available online.
Kicking off the week on December 6 is the MOG x Atomik Umbrella release party, presented by Only In Dade, starting at 3:05 PM. This event celebrates the collaboration with Adam Vargas, aka Atomik, the mastermind behind Miami’s iconic smiling oranges that have become symbols of the city’s dynamic street culture. The Atomik Umbrella, limited to 300 pieces and priced at $25 USD, will also be available online starting December 7 at 12 PM. Pre-registration for this unique release is open and can be accessed here.
The excitement continues on December 7 with two highly anticipated drops. At 11 AM, the museum will release the limited edition OSGEMEOS Skate Deck, featuring the work of Brazilian twins Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo. Known for their profound impact on the art world, the Pandolfo brothers grew up in São Paulo’s Cambuci district, where they were inspired by the introduction of Hip Hop culture in Brazil. With only 300 pieces available at $150 USD each, this deck is a collector’s dream. Those interested in this exclusive release can pre-register here, and an online release is scheduled for December 8 at 12 PM.
Following the skate deck release, at 2 PM, the museum will host the launch of CES’ first book, “From The Desk of CES.” This hardcover book, priced at $39.99 USD and limited to 1,000 copies, offers a journey into over 100 rare illustrations by the graffiti genius CES. Known for his unique blend of technique, humor, and color, CES’ art captures the essence of hip-hop culture and the resilience of urban life. Pre-registration for this event is available here, and an online release is set for December 11 at 12:00 pm.
