This small selection of photos represent a tiny fraction of the aerosol artistry that once covered the block long former warehouse and "graffiti mecca" known as "5 Pointz" in Long Island City. In a long standing legal tussle between artists and owners (who once sanctioned the endeavor), the art covered walls were whitewashed in the middle of the night on November 19th. Of course, all graffiti is ephemeral, but this full tilt assault on a beloved art institution was insulting and heart breaking for everyone.
I know that part of the contract we make with this town is that change is constant but I am really saddened that the change here represents the latest volley in a long march of the condos and the soul sucking sound of homogenization.
Meanwhile, big thanks to the curator of the walls, Jonathan Cohen, and to the many talented artists who contributed to this amazingly vital international art attraction and kept it going since 2002. It is a big loss for us all.
November 5th 2013, just before this wall and the rest of the block was whitewashed in the middle of the night.
all photos ©Ken Brown
