'The Rise of Graffiti Writing' Documentary Chronicles the Underground Art Form

Spotlighting Futura 2000, LEE, SKEME, and more OG artists.

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Graffiti has its roots in late 1960s Philadelphia when writers Cornbread and Cool Earl went bombing around the city, garnering media attention. However, the underground art form was more prolific in New York City, especially throughout the 1970s. Graffiti legends such as LEE, SKEME, Futura 2000, the TATS CRU, and FAB5FREDDY championed the movement with their unique writing styles and techniques that eventually made its way across the pond in Europe.

Red Tower Films and Arte Creative is set to launch a new documentary titled The Rise of Graffiti Writing that spotlights the rich history of the five-decade-old movement. OG writers, from NYC and Europe, offer their profound insights and experiences of graffiti writing alongside acclaimed gallerist Yaki Kornblit and director Charlie Ahearn of Wildstyle who has had a major impact on the art form. Additionally, Robert Del Naja from Massive Attack who Goldie claimed was the elusive artist, Banksy, appears in the film as well.

Watch the trailer above and expect a global premiere this November 13 on Arte Creative’s official website. The first season of the web-series is comprised of ten episodes.

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Keith Estiler Managing Editor, Hypeart

Keith Estiler is a New York-born curator, writer, and the Managing Editor of Hypeart, the contemporary art arm of Hypebeast. Based in NYC, Keith heads up editorial strategy at the intersection of contemporary art and culture, capturing the icons and outliers of both the local and international scenes. He has curated exhibitions worldwide, dedicated to championing the emerging voices and subcultures currently redefining contemporary visual culture.

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