City as Studio exhibition at Hong Kong's K11 Musea traces graffiti's evolution from 1970s origins to global art form

At K11 Musea in Hong Kong, the exhibition "City as Studio," curated by Jeffrey Deitch, explores the evolution of graffiti from a localized form of expression to a globally acknowledged art movement. The exhibit highlights the journey of graffiti in the U.S. since its 1970s beginnings to its acceptance in mainstream culture, showcasing its ties to fashion, design, and urban subcultures. Featured artists include trailblazers like Futura and Fab 5 Freddy, as well as iconic figures such as Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose works remain influential and command high auction prices. The show also spotlights New York's early graffiti scene with Lee Quiñones and Rammellzee, and the 1980 Times Square Show. Contributions from Los Angeles are represented by Cholo artists like Chaz Bojórquez and Mister Cartoon, while San Francisco's Mission School movement showcases artists such as Barry McGee and Margaret Kilgallen. Later generations, including KAWS and Shepard Fairey, illustrate graffiti's reach into street art, sculpture, and commercial partnerships. Uncle, a Hong Kong artist, exemplifies the worldwide proliferation of this art form. The exhibition is open until May 14.