Chaka Mkali

Curated by Joe Ellis, "Paintings" is a journey through graffiti as a vocabulary in painting, with a spotlight on its evolution within the Twin Cities. Graffiti, often marginalized yet inherently powerful, emerges as a contemporary manifestation of painting's timeless narrative.

This exhibition aims to examine the dynamics between graffiti and painting, focusing on six pivotal artists who have played instrumental roles in shaping this art form, from within the Twin Cities. From its nascent stages as a response to systemic oppression, to its absorption of myriad styles, graffiti emerges as a testament to creativity's enduring resilience.

The visual art form of Hip Hop culture, graffiti represents a legacy born from marginalized communities, where creative expression becomes an act of defiance. Despite facing criminalization, harassment, and assault, these artists persist, channeling their energies into transforming urban landscapes into vibrant canvases.

Central to the narrative of the Twin Cities graffiti scene are three distinct generations of painters, each contributing to its rich tapestry while forging their own unique identities. Their collective journey, rooted in authenticity, innovation, and ambition, has birthed creative communities that serve as incubators for artistic expression.

"Paintings" celebrates the local legacy of Minnesota's graffiti scene, shedding light on its underappreciated yet profoundly influential nature. Through a curated selection of works from locally renowned artists and one of their NYC contemporaries, the exhibition offers a compelling testimony of this visual language.
Our goal in presenting this exhibition was to begin tracing and illuminating its trajectory from humble beginnings to its current status as a dynamic and integral facet of contemporary painting.