Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival – Under The Influence Art Exhibit – Recap, Photos, Video

In general, we often talk about hip hop music, but we rarely discuss hip hop art. When we do, it’s generally in terms of “writing” or “bombing,” the traditional graffiti aspects of hip hop’s artistic roots. Hip hop non-believers may think that graffiti is the only way the hip hop generation expresses themselves artistically, but those who truly understands hip hop, know that the hip hop generation is awash with free-spirited individuals that have already radically changed the music and style landscapes of what hip hop is “supposed” to be.

The Brooklyn Bodega sponsored Under The Influence exhibition at The powerHouse Arena, part of the annual Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival, showcased many examples of the photography, paintings, and sculptures of this creatively gifted generation that arose from the music to express their view of hip hop.

The exhibition was curated by the Mighty Tanaka Gallery and Royce Bannon and pays tribute to Jamel Shabazz and the release of his new book, Back in the Days Remix: 10th Anniversary Edition, showcasing the style of the culture’s golden era. Over 50 artists, including Shabazz, Joe Conzo, SKI, and  212 Magazine, take over two floors of this beautiful art space, which serves as an independent book store/art venue, complete with high ceilings and amphitheater seating designed to dismiss the stale structure of the unlively chairs and tables found at your local Barnes & Noble.

Click for pictures of many of the items on display at the Under The Influence Art Exhibit

Click to see our pictures from the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival Main Day

Highlights include miniature versions of NYC subway cars replete with graffiti, a painting of Big Daddy Kane getting a haircut, and an interesting display of swords and sheaths. Hip hop art shows are unfortunately uncommon, so it’s refreshing to see a movement of artists developing their intrinsic affection for hip hop and translating it into their own definition of what hip hop means to them.

What better way to expand your hip hop horizons than by attending this beautiful array of artistic expression held in DUMBO’s powerHouse Arena, a wonderful venue within steps of the Brooklyn waterfront.  Brooklyn Bodega had no problem selling this event, because it was free, but the value of what was on these walls made the event worth so much more. Viewing hip hop art, on display in a gallery setting, almost seemed surreal, because exhibitions like this are a rarity.

Do yourself a favor and get under the influence of this exhibit before it is too late.

Click for pictures of many of the items on display at the Under The Influence Art Exhibit

Click to see our pictures from the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival Main Day

Click here for additional 2011 Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival recaps and coverage, including the Main Day performances, with Q-Tip and friends, including a spirited surprise appearance by Kanye West.