Sept 28, 2023 -- The World Cup of Hip Hop proudly unveils its prestigious Graffiti Art Committee, a unique assembly of international artists each bringing their diverse artistic strengths. This Committee is a testament to the vibrant and varied styles, visions, and stories that make up the Hip Hop culture. The Committee features: London's Askem (Martin Askem), celebrating Hip-Hop's 50th anniversary with his groundbreaking โArt You Can Hearโขโ collection; New York City's Leia Sands, self-taught artist and respected creator to many Hip-Hop pioneers and celebrities; The Bronx's COSE TDS, a graffiti artist whose journey began at eight and has since marked NYC's transit system and galleries alike; and India's NME, a graffiti and calligraffiti artist who has worked with top brands while infusing walls with his whimsical characters.
Each artist, through their unique artistic vision, carries the visual narrative of Hip Hop, furthering its influence and presence in communities worldwide. They play a vital role in inscribing the visual language of Hip Hop culture onto the global canvas, ensuring its dynamic spirit is preserved for future generations. This collaboration is more than just a gathering; it's a space for mutual growth and creative exploration, striving to redefine the visual norms of Hip Hop. The artists will engage in conversation, share ideas, and work together to enrich the global Hip Hop landscape with their innovative creations.
Askem (Martin Askem), London, England:
To celebrate the golden jubilee of Hip-Hop, Askem brings to the global community his revolutionary โArt You Can Hearโขโ collection in NFT format. Boasting over 600 images, it stands as the most expansive and culturally rich representation of Hip-Hop Art across the globe. Born concurrently with the inception of Hip-Hop in 1973, Askem is a self-taught artist who emerged on the art scene in 2009. Drawing inspiration from icons like Dali, Hergรฉ, Warhol, and the musical legends he portrays, he has shaped a unique trademarked style: โArt You Can Hearโข.โ His influential works have adorned exhibitions in New York, Brooklyn, and Los Angeles and have been the principal artistic force behind Chuck Dโs acclaimed book โThis Day in Rap and Hip-Hop History,โ cover arts for Public Enemy, Kurtis Blow, and merch designs for the Universal Hip Hop Museum and Big Daddy Kane. For more on Askem, follow him on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or visit www.a5kem.com.
Leia Sands, New York City:
Born in Florida in 1974, Leia Sands is a self-taught artist based in NYC, who commenced her artistic journey drawing on walls as a small child. Her passion was fueled by her parents who nourished her creativity, leading her to become a respected Artist to celebrities in the realms of Hip-Hop Culture, Film, and Entertainment. Her artistic expressions adorn the homes of Hip-Hop pioneers like Grandmaster Caz, MC G.L.O.B.E., and Kurtis Blow, among others.
Sands is not only a creator but also an educator, frequently speaking at Artist Panel Talks across the USA, enlightening both adults and youth about the synergy between Art & Music. She was part of a notable live painting art show, "Just for Fun," where she collaborated with iconic aerosol artists and figures from the underground film scene. Her work has been featured in exhibitions around NY and in Hip-Hop Culture Docu-Series like "Sons and Daughter's of Hip Hop."
In 2022/2023, Leia was both a subject and a host for various Hip-Hop Culture Film Documentaries, contributing to the rich tapestry of Hip-Hop culture and continuing the dialogue between art and music. For her, art is not just creation; it is conversation, education, and revolution, bringing the essence of the streets to the galleries and linking past artistic rebels to the present creators.
COSE TDS, The Bronx:
"Who is this COSE TDS character? ..some might ask." Rooted in the vibrant streets of The Bronx, COSE TDS's journey began when his father handed him a sketch pad at the tender age of eight. This early exposure sparked a love for art, which grew further as he ventured into the world of graffiti during high school. Introduced to graffiti by a local artist "BEO ROC", COSE began marking NYC's transit system in 1981, frequenting the "Lay-ups" - the resting spots of NYC trains during off-hours.
His undeniable talent and relentless passion for the art of "vandalism" led him to become one of the most renowned figures in the graffiti world. However, it also caught the attention of two notorious vandal squad detectives, "Hicky and Ski", culminating in his arrest and being dubbed one of the most prolific graffiti artists of 1983 by the "Daily News".
Today, COSE TDS has evolved his craft, transitioning from train carriages to canvas, exhibiting his works in renowned art galleries for global audiences. For COSE, art is not just a passion; it serves as a therapeutic outlet, shaping his life's narrative.
NME, India:
Known by his stage name, NME is a respected graffiti and calligraffiti artist who has captivated audiences worldwide with his vibrant and dynamic creations. He has partnered with elite brands such as Bira White, Excel Entertainment, OML Entertainment, and WeWork, bringing his unique aesthetic and vision to a diverse range of projects.
NME is recognized for his ability to seamlessly blend whimsical characters with calligraffiti, imbuing walls with a sense of joy and expression. He believes in the transformative power of art, stating, "Many times I explore my own style of combining funny characters with calligraffiti. It seems as if the walls are expressing their happiness." After accomplishing this harmony, NME often immerses himself in his local surroundings, skateboarding in his hood and absorbing the sounds of his favorite Hip-Hop tracks.
With numerous accolades and a reputation for transforming brand visions into compelling art forms, NME is a go-to artist for those seeking to bring their dream projects to life through the lens of his distinctive style.
The Graffiti Art Committee is a crucial part of the World Cup of Hip Hop's mission to build connections between different elements of Hip Hop, cultivating a comprehensive and inclusive cultural environment. The Committee's mission is to highlight the many dimensions of Hip Hop, enabling a more detailed and nuanced understanding of its artistic heritage and potential.
The World Cup of Hip Hop Organization warmly welcomes these artistic virtuosos and eagerly anticipates the transformative artistic journeys and narratives this collaboration will inspire. Stay connected for more updates and announcements as we continue to nurture and celebrate the universal spirit of Hip Hop.
The World Cup of Hip Hop is a trailblazing organization committed to recognizing and uplifting every aspect of Hip Hop culture. By offering a global platform for various artistic expressions within the Hip Hop community, it strives to unite cultural forces and ensure the ongoing evolution and worldwide impact of Hip Hop.
