The Museum of the City of New York (MCNY) boasts an exceptional collection of early graffiti art and ephemera, thanks to the efforts of Martin Wong, a queer Chinese-American artist who made a name for himself in the bustling art scene of late 1970s New York. Despite his unconventional background and living situation as a night porter in a Lower East Side hotel, Wong forged strong connections with graffiti writers, a community that was often misunderstood and marginalized at the time.
Wong’s fascination with graffiti art led him to collect drawings, sketchbooks, and even paintings by these artists, many of whom would go on to achieve global recognition for their innovative style. His collection includes works by renowned graffiti artists such as Futura 2000, Keith Haring, Lady Pink, Rammelzee, and DAZE, among others. These pieces, once considered vandalism by society, are now celebrated as significant cultural artifacts.
In addition to collecting graffiti art, Wong was also a prolific artist in his own right, creating intricate urban landscapes, surreal ceramics, and calligraphy-inspired scrolls. His diverse body of work reflects his deep connection to the city and its vibrant artistic community.
Before his untimely death from complications related to AIDS in the 1990s, Wong donated his graffiti collection to the MCNY, ensuring that these important works would be preserved and shared with future generations. The exhibition “Above Ground: Art from the Martin Wong Graffiti Collection” showcases many of these prized pieces, offering viewers a glimpse into the dynamic world of graffiti art and its impact on contemporary culture.
A recent live panel discussion at the MCNY, moderated by Hyperallergic Editor-in-Chief Hrag Vartanian, brought together Wong’s friends and colleagues to share stories about the artist and his collection. The panelists highlighted Wong’s passion for collecting, his larger-than-life personality, and his penchant for storytelling.
The exhibition “Above Ground: Art from the Martin Wong Graffiti Collection” is currently on view at the Museum of the City of New York through August 10. This unique showcase of graffiti art pays tribute to Wong’s legacy as a collector, artist, and champion of underground creativity.
To learn more about the exhibition and listen to the podcast episode recorded at the MCNY, visit the museum’s website. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of graffiti art and explore the intersection of street culture and fine art.
