This program will be held in person at the Newberry and also livestreamed on Zoom.
Join us for a conversation with PENGO and EAST, two first-generation Midwest graffiti writers, as they explore the evolution and development of Chicago-style graffiti.
In the 1980s and 90s, PENGO and EAST helped pioneer the iconic Chicago-style of graffiti writing, recognizable by its structure, balance, and flow. Drawing on their extensive experience, they will discuss the different elements that influenced Chicago’s unique graffiti style and, in turn, how Chicago has influenced other scenes over the years. This conversation will be moderated by artist and curator Dulce María Díaz.
This event is part of programming for A Show of Hands: Handwriting in the Age of Print. The exhibition is open September 9 through December 30, 2022.
Speakers
PENGO and EAST are graffiti artists from Chicago. PENGO was born and raised on Chicago’s West Side and currently resides on the Northwest side of Chicago. EAST is currently based out of Denver.
Dulce Maria Diaz is founder, Director, and Curator of S.H.E. Gallery. In 2015, Diaz presented her first exhibition “Pave Way,” which featured five graffiti writers of the early 90s. Since then, she has been advocating and providing platforms for the evolution of graffiti history. In 2017, Diaz became a producer with CAN T.V. In March 2022, S.H.E. Gallery presented “Family Resemblance: The Evolution of Chicago-Style Graffiti,” an exhibit recognizing legendary first-generation graffiti writers like B-BOY B, DRASTIC, EAST, FESSKI FESS, ORKO, PENGO, SLANG, TAKE2, TRIXTER, and WARP.
Cost and Registration
This program is free and open to all.
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