Chris 'Daze' Ellis Presents New Exhibition at PPOW Gallery in New York

Chris 'Daze' Ellis is currently showing his third solo exhibition, titled 'Orchid Rain on the Underground,' at PPOW Gallery in New York City. The display runs until April 25, 2026, and includes a fresh collection of paintings, a mixed-media installation, and a wall mural created specifically for the space. Ellis, born in Brooklyn in 1962, draws inspiration from the graffiti scene of the 1970s and 1980s, blending that raw energy with a refined studio approach developed over fifty years. His early influences include graffiti pioneers such as Blade, Lee Quiñones, and PHASE 2, as well as urban nightlife spots like the Lit Lounge, Danceteria, and the Mudd Club, which served as hubs for artistic experimentation. The works reflect New York City's streets and subway systems, informed by urban realists like John Sloan and Reginald Marsh, and abstract expressionists such as Joan Mitchell and Willem De Kooning. A notable painting, 'Gem Spa In the 80s' from 2025, portrays a historic East Village newsstand frequented by subcultural figures and referenced by writers like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg, with depictions of individuals including critic Carlo McCormick and artist Martin Wong. Other pieces feature vibrant floral arrangements emerging from urban debris, symbolizing hope amid decay. The exhibition also incorporates a hallway mural and an immersive installation with a dance floor, disco ball, subway seats, and a music mix, evoking the creative freedom of Ellis's youth. This presentation highlights his ongoing engagement with city life and tribute to the cultural landmarks that shaped his career.