Notch 56 56
Untitled
1995
Markers on paper
20.5 × 27 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 a stylized rendering of the word "MAZE" in a graffiti wildstyle,characterized by its intricate and interconnected letterforms. The letters are designed with sharp angles,extensions,and overlapping elements,forming a dense and dynamic visual structure. The piece incorporates a palette of muted yellows,greens,and pinks for the main fill,with accents of light blue and red,while a stark black outline defines the letterforms and their three-dimensional aspects.
The artwork includes a secondary element,the letters "DS," rendered in a dripping,bubble-like style,positioned below and to the right of the primary "MAZE" lettering. This element contrasts with the more angular wildstyle,introducing a softer,more fluid aesthetic. The overall presentation suggests a deliberate practice piece,commonly referred to as a "blackbook" sketch within graffiti culture,where artists develop and refine their lettering styles and compositions. The paper exhibits some surface folds and minor discoloration,indicative of its age and the medium's handling.
Expert opinion
Graffiti art,once considered vandalism,has progressively transitioned into a recognized art form,with works now commanding attention in galleries and auction houses. The market for street art,including graffiti,is expanding,driven by institutional recognition and collector interest in its cultural authenticity. Notch 56's work,particularly his blackbook sketches,represents a foundational aspect of this movement,showcasing the development of letter styles and techniques that are central to graffiti's visual language.
The artist's long-standing involvement in the New York graffiti scene since 1979 and his reputation as a prolific producer of sketchbooks position him within a lineage of influential graffiti writers. Pieces like this offer insight into the creative process of a graffiti artist,serving as a direct link to the origins of a global art movement. The commercial engagements of artists like Notch 56,such as collaborations with Molotow and Cartoon Network,further underscore the increasing mainstream acceptance and market viability of graffiti 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
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