Notch 56 (Hector Perez)
graff funk
1982
Pencil and marker on paper
15.5 × 24.5 cm
Unique
Location: Paris, France
Documents
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Invoice or proof of purchase
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Certificate of authenticity
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Other documents
About the artwork
This composition features the word "GRAFF" rendered in prominent bubble letters,with "FUNK" positioned beneath it in a more fluid,script-like style. The "GRAFF" lettering exhibits rounded,volumetric forms,characteristic of the "bubble letter" or "softie" style that emerged in the early 1970s. This style,pioneered by artists like Phase 2,allowed for expressive,elaborate lettering that stood out from simpler tags. The letters are outlined in black,with a consistent grey shading applied to create a three-dimensional effect,suggesting depth and form.
Below the main text,the word "FUNK" is executed with a different hand,employing a broader marker and a more gestural approach,contrasting with the structured appearance of the upper text. Small circular elements,or "bubbles," are placed around the letters,a common motif in early graffiti art. A copyright symbol with the year "82" is visible near the lower right of the "GRAFF" section,indicating the work's creation date. The piece functions as a study in typography and composition within the lexicon of early graffiti,exploring different lettering styles and their visual interplay.
Expert opinion
This work belongs to the early period of graffiti art,specifically the early 1980s,a pivotal time when the movement was transitioning from underground subculture to gaining wider recognition. The use of bubble letters,a style popularized in the 1970s,places the artwork within a foundational era of graffiti's stylistic development. During this period,graffiti began to be recognized beyond vandalism,with artists experimenting with more complex styles like "wildstyle" and engaging with the burgeoning hip-hop culture.
The market for street art has matured significantly,with works by pioneering artists now sought after by collectors and institutions. While large-scale murals and works by globally recognized figures like Basquiat or Banksy command high prices,early drawings and sketches by foundational graffiti artists like Notch 56 offer insights into the origins and evolution of the art form. These pieces are valued for their historical context and their representation of the artist's formative practice. The market for such works is stable,driven by collectors interested in the cultural heritage of street art.
About the artist
NOTCH 56 is an artist associated with the graffiti and street art scene, primarily known for his contributions to blackbooks. These sketchbooks serve as a crucial medium for graffiti artists to develop styles, characters, and letterforms, often exchanging them within their community. The artist is identified with several crews, including TFA, DTK, THB, MAGIC DUST INK, and TSK (The Stone Killer), indicating a history of involvement in collaborative and individual projects within the urban art sphere. His practice often involves the creation of characters and stylized figures, which are a common element in graffiti art beyond lettering. These characters frequently feature distinct visual motifs and expressions, reflecting the artist's individual aesthetic within the broader context of street art culture. NOTCH 56's work is part of a tradition where personal style and technical skill are honed and shared among peers, contributing to the evolution of graffiti as an art form.
Additional info
Signed
Dated
3x
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