Two Shanghai street artists have teamed up to create an exhibition celebrating the originator of Chinese street art -- Xeme and Sinic 'Kowloon' is an exhibit currently displayed at the Shinkong Mitsuhkoshi Culture Hall from August 5th-August 28th, 2011.
'Kowloon' is the nickname of Tsang Tsou Choi, a Hong King citizen and artist known for his calligraphy graffiti. Long considered a trailblazer, Choi was arrested several times for graffiti and routinely had his art work buffed off walls. He typically wrote his name, his nickname (Emperor/King of Kowloon) or protest art calling for the downfall of the Queen of England.
Tsang Tsou Choi died in 2007, at the age of 86. One of his dying wishes was that his artwork get another exhibit.
Xeme and Sinic 'Kowloon' provides the 'King of Kowloon' with his last wish, and they do so in style. Check out the gallery to see some highlights from the exhibit.
Implications - It was only a few years ago that graffiti was considered the shunned subculture of the art world. Now, graffiti and street art are considered one of the biggest developments in the art world of the last five years. A company would be wise to commission a street artist to create a mural for them, which provides the company with cool viral marketing and also shows a commitment to the avant garde.
Historical Graffiti Retrospectives
Xeme and Sinic 'Kowloon' Pays Tribute to A Graff Forerunner
Trend Themes
1. Graffiti Art - Opportunity for businesses to collaborate with street artists to create unique and viral marketing campaigns.
2. Street Art - Growing recognition of street art as a significant and influential art form, creating new avenues for artistic expression and public engagement.
3. Art World Development - The evolution and acceptance of graffiti and street art as a mainstream art movement, opening up opportunities for galleries, museums, and art institutions to showcase and promote street artists.
Industry Implications
1. Marketing and Advertising - Utilizing graffiti and street art as a creative and effective marketing strategy to engage with audiences and differentiate brands.
2. Art Galleries - Providing a platform for graffiti and street artists to exhibit their work, attracting new audiences and expanding the art world's boundaries.
3. Public Art Initiatives - Supporting and promoting street art projects in public spaces to enhance urban environments and encourage community involvement.