HarlemLIVE

photos by: Jason Taylor
Around 30 years ago, a new art form arose. It was recognized for its value by few but practiced by many. Only a few of those young artists have been recognized for their work, but as time progresses more people are realizing their talent. The city streets and subways are their canvas, and their brushes are spray paint.

One of the pioneers in this new field of Aerosol Art was J.J. Ramirez also known as MICO. He began in 1969 at 14, after moving to Brooklyn from Colombia, South America. Some of his first work appeared on the D and the QJ (now known as the M) subway lines in the late seventies. Many of his accomplishments distinguished him from other early writers. He began by being the first artist from Brooklyn voted into United Graffiti Artist, (A group of artist promoting Aerosol Art.).

 

He also participated in the first gallery show of Aerosol Art in Soho at the Razor Gallery. He also was the first aerosol artist to have one of his canvases purchased in a NYC gallery show. Its name? The MICO Flag. He also created a sequel to the MICO Flag on a wall in Brooklyn. A lot of his work was based on Puerto Rico though he wasnÿt from the area he called it his "Political Work". He helped make Aerosol Art what it is today.

Aerosol Art is becoming a dominating field of art in the new millennium. As more and more are discovered our eyes will be opened to new views on life and we will be able to understand each other better.

This writing show, Graffiti 2000 Uptown Soul, was on view at American Vision Gallery 145 located at West 145th Street and Edgecombe Avenue. The show, which included artists, Stan 153, MICO, Meres, JamesTop, Flint707, Iz the Wiz, Duro and DOMS, among others, was open until September 3, 2000.

Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, noon to 6:00 pm and you can get more information online at www.genesisartline.com or by calling the gallery at 212-234-8227.