David Kesting Presents Ricky Powell
May 17 – June 9, 2013
Curated By Tono Radvany
Opening Night Reception Friday May 17, 2013 from 7:00 – 10:00pm
As the recession of the early 1980’s gave way to the wall street excess the decade is known for, the streets of downtown New York were flush with inspired graffiti from a new generation of artists. The poetic, wall written musings of Samo© and rhythmic patterns of Haring’s subway chalk paintings are excellent examples of that new art form. These visual artists accompanied or actively participated in the sounds of a new style of musicians, noise bands and punk rock- hip hop fusions. The term “famous for being famous” created a mystique surrounding this urban revolution launched in the wasteland below 14th street. Scharf, Haring and Basquiat were the logical step from the father of pop art, Warhol. In the same way as the Beastie Boys, known for their punk rock swagger were learned in the school of hip hop instructed by Run DMC.
Bushwick today represents a strong similarity to New York in the mid 80’s. Our country is emerging from a long term recession. The then downtown scene, a place where desolate streets hide art events, performances and late night music behind steel loft doors, is mirrored in the urban wasteland of industrial East Williamsburg and Bushwick. A familiar terrain where like in the decades past, everyone knows everyone, everyone is an artist, actor, writer or musician or possibly a combination thereof.
David Kesting Presents: Ricky Powell, a collection of photographs from the artists archives reflecting the urban artistic and music references between these two times and cultures. Curated by Tono Radvany a longtime friend of Powell known for cataloging, exhibiting and printing Powell’s work.
Opening Night Reception Friday May 17, 2013 from 7:00 – 10:00pm
David Kesting Presents
257 Boerum Street Brooklyn NY 11206 ( btwn Bushwick & White) L train to Morgan. Gallery Hours: Saturday & Sunday from Noon until 5pm
