THE UPDATE, 2020

Since the 1970s, the Bronx became home to the birth of hip hop and styles of graffiti, which were pushed by narratives of poverty, street violence, and the experience of being a member of an underserved community. At the same time, it became a home for a new wave of artistic cultures and underground movements. As hip hop and graffiti provided a foundation and soil for Bronx creativity, newer generations of artists arose and proved that Bronx artists can experiment with mediums beyond DJ sets and spray paint. By referring to influences of native BX styles, they continue telling the street narratives of the Bronx with the borough’s continuing and contemporary issues as part of the conversation— issues of displacement, gentrification, street violence, representation, and economic struggle. With statistics that show the Bronx has the highest poverty rate out all of the New York City boroughs in mind, this exhibition is also a celebration of the local community, networks, collectives, and the overall collective artistry that is constantly being created here despite the lack of access and resources.

The Update presents works by Bronx artists of now, their experiences, and the influence of their streets and the rich history behind them. Consisting of ten under thirty, The Update is defining the next generation of Bronx artists.

Reflecting the local community, The Update consists of artists of color who are addressing their daily lived experiences, influences, and modes of expression. Blurring lines in the contemporary art world, the works speak to the history of abstract painting, conceptual sculpture, photo and video journalism, documentary work, street art, textile art, and printmaking. Through various mediums including photography, video, painting, sculpture, and mixed media, the artists collectively demonstrate how their native borough plays a key component in shaping their visual narrative. While speaking on key issues we face as a borough, this new generation is actively reflecting the Bronx’s street culture, fashion, aesthetic, and history yet updating it with a true contemporary and ground breaking vision.

PROGRAMS

“The Role of the Bronx” - An open conversation with a selection of artists featured in the exhibition led by curator Kiara Ventura, speaking about how the Bronx streets play a key role in their work. Listen here.

“AW CLASSROOM: Bronx Legends” - Artist Stanley Steel speaks about the art/significance of graffiti tagging and leads an educational tagging workshop. Art Materials will be distributed.

Images: Courtesy of Longwood Gallery