Graffiti and the Legacy of Martin Wong: Street Art Stories
# Street Stories – Graffiti and the Legacy of Martin Wong
Graffiti has long been a symbol of rebellious expression, cultural identity, and artistic innovation. Once considered mere vandalism, it has since evolved into a recognized form of artistic and political commentary, shaping urban landscapes and inspiring generations of artists. At the heart of this movement, few figures have been as influential as Martin Wong, a visionary artist and collector.
On **Monday, March 10, at 7 PM**, the **Museum of the City of New York** will host a compelling panel discussion titled **”Street Stories – Graffiti and the Legacy of Martin Wong.”** This event, featuring renowned figures in the art world, will explore graffiti’s evolution, its social and political dimensions, and Wong’s pivotal role in preserving its legacy.
## The Event and Its Participants
Moderated by **Hrag Vartanian**, Editor-in-Chief of *Hyperallergic*, the discussion will bring together:
– **Lee Quiñones** – One of the most influential artists from New York City’s subway art movement.
– **Wendy Olsoff** – Co-founder of **PPOW Gallery**, a space deeply connected with Wong’s work.
– **Sean Corcoran** – Senior Curator of Prints and Photographs at the **Museum of the City of New York**.
The conversation will offer a deep dive into graffiti’s journey—from its underground origins in New York City’s subway system to its current presence in mainstream art galleries worldwide.
## Martin Wong’s Influence on Graffiti
Though not a graffiti artist himself, **Martin Wong** was instrumental in documenting and preserving graffiti as an art form. His extensive collection, now housed at the Museum of the City of New York, remains one of the most comprehensive archives of graffiti-based art. Wong saw graffiti not as disorderly scribbles, but as poetic, visually captivating expressions of urban life.
His efforts helped bring recognition to artists who were once dismissed by the mainstream art world. Without his vision and advocacy, many of today’s most celebrated graffiti artists may have remained in obscurity.
## Explore the Exhibition: *Above Ground*
Before the discussion, attendees are invited to view **”Above Ground: Art from the Martin Wong Graffiti Collection”**—an exhibition showcasing Wong’s remarkable collection. On display are unseen treasures and vibrant works from young artists who transformed city walls into canvases of creativity.
## Why It Matters
Graffiti is more than spray paint on a wall—it’s an art form that bridges cultures, challenges authority, and redefines traditional notions of aesthetics. By revisiting its history and its champions like Martin Wong, we gain a better understanding of its role in shaping contemporary visual culture.
Through this event, audiences will not only appreciate graffiti’s artistic merit but also understand its significance in broader social and political narratives.
## Attend the Discussion
– 📅 Date: **Monday, March 10, at 7 PM** (Exhibition opens at 6 PM)
– 📍 **Museum of the City of New York** – 1220 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY
– 🎟️ Tickets: **$25 | $10 for Hyperallergic Members**
[Get Tickets Here](https://35948.blackbaudhosting.com/35948/tickets?tab=2&txobjid=398b9e47-878b-4eb0-adba-363ff5f8f74a)
Join this engaging conversation to explore the legacy of graffiti and the artistic impact of Martin Wong. It’s an opportunity to connect with art history, contemporary movements, and the visionaries who continue to elevate street art to new heights.