About the artwork
A sketchbook page features a graffiti-style rendition of the word "QUADRA" rendered in marker and ink. The central element is a bubble-lettered word,filled with light grey tones and accented with dark grey shading to create a three-dimensional effect. Teal green details and small star motifs are incorporated into the letterforms,adding textural interest.
The letters are outlined in black,and the entire word is set against a background of blue,cloud-like shapes,suggesting a dynamic,ethereal setting. The composition demonstrates characteristic elements of graffiti lettering,including exaggerated curves,connections between letters,and a sense of movement.
In the upper left corner of the page,two smaller tags are present. One reads "QUADRA" with additional stylistic flourishes and a dollar sign symbol,while the other,outlined in blue,appears to be the artist's tag "PART-ONE" or a variation thereof. These elements provide context for the main piece,illustrating the artist's tagging practice alongside a more developed letter-style.
Expert opinion
This work exemplifies the 'blackbook' tradition within graffiti culture,serving as a vital record of an artist's stylistic evolution and experimentation. Such pieces are increasingly recognized within the broader art historical context as primary documents of a significant urban art movement. The artist's position as a first-generation New York City graffiti writer lends historical weight to the piece.
In the art market,works by pioneering graffiti artists like Enrique Torres hold a specific niche. They are sought after by collectors interested in the origins of street art and its transition into gallery spaces. The market values these works for their authenticity,the artist's reputation,and their direct connection to the foundational period of the movement.
About the artist
Enrique Torres, known as PART-ONE, is an American artist recognized for his contributions to the early New York City graffiti scene. Active since the 1970s, he emerged from the Bronx, becoming a member of prominent crews such as The Death Squad (TDS) and The Crazy Five (TC5). His work developed during a formative period for the art form, characterized by experimentation with letter styles and color schemes on subway trains. Torres's career progressed from illegal street art to gallery exhibitions, establishing him as a historical figure within the Street Art movement. His practice includes both large-scale murals and smaller works on paper, documenting the evolution of his distinct aesthetic.
Additional info
Certificate
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