Introduction: Introduction
As a devoted lover of hip-hop, the anniversary of this groundbreaking genre couldn't pass by without a celebration. In August 2023, I had the pleasure of curating my solo art exhibition titled ' Wall of Sound - Hip Hop is 50 Edition' at Nolia's Gallery in London.
The week-long exhibition featured over forty-five of my signature vinyl art pieces; to commemorate half a century of my favourite genre.
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The Opening Night Spectacle
The exhibition kicked off with a bang, and the opening night was nothing short of extraordinary. The turnout was beyond my expectations, and the energy in the room mirrored the vibrant spirit of hip-hop itself.
Paying Homage to the Pioneers
My aim was to pay tribute to as many pioneers and legends of the culture as possible. Among them was Clive Campbell, better known as DJ Kool Herc, who was integral to the birth of hip-hop in the Bronx, New York City, in 1973.
Remembering the Legends
Part of the exhibition honoured the legends we've lost, including iconic figures like DMX, Sean Price, The Notorious B.I.G, Tupac Shakur, J Dilla and MF Doom. Each piece served as a visual narrative, capturing their essence.
Breakin' and the 1980s Breakdancing Craze
The exhibition also delved into the cultural phenomenon of the 1980s with a focus on the movie "Breakin'" (also known as "Breakdance: The Movie" in certain regions). This cinematic gem holds a special place in the hearts of those who honed their breakdancing skills during the 80s.
To all those who attended, a heartfelt thank you! Your presence and the stories you shared about how hip-hop resonates with you sincerely made this exhibition special.
And to those who couldn't make it, check out my recap video below. Your voice is just as important. I would love to hear from you, sharing your favourite memories of how hip-hop impacted your life. Let's keep the celebration alive, honouring the genre that has enriched our lives, and here's to another 50 years of celebrating the vibrant spirit of hip-hop!
A special mentioned to at Itch FM and Rubix Frames who sponsored the event.