Graffiti art, long vilified as criminal mischief, is finding a new home in the most unexpected of places: Suburban Station in Philadelphia. This once-neglected space, now transformed by the artist-led initiative Step Outside, is a vibrant gallery showcasing the evolution of graffiti art. The exhibit, titled 'Platform X', is a celebration of the USA 250th anniversary, with 250 artists contributing their unique interpretations. The theme, 'USA 250', is a rebellious take on the semiquincentennial, with pieces like 'American Religion' depicting Benjamin Franklin with a crown of thorns and the words 'In God We Lust' written over his head. This is a stark contrast to the patriotic depictions we've seen for the semiquincentennial.
What makes this exhibit particularly fascinating is the collaboration between the artists and the space itself. The artists, who wished to remain anonymous due to the criminalization of graffiti in Pennsylvania, were approached by SEPTA representatives to transform the vacant spaces in Suburban Station. The result is a space that is both gritty and beautiful, reflecting the essence of street art. The room that looks like the inside of a SEPTA BSL train car is a testament to the artists' skill and creativity, with every inch of the space covered in graffiti, paintings, and drawings.
In my opinion, this exhibit is a powerful statement against the establishment. Graffiti, as an art form, is inherently anti-establishment, and the fact that it is now being embraced by the very institutions that once vilified it is significant. The show has been received glowingly by visitors, who have been invited to add to the art themselves, creating a sense of community and ownership. This is a safe haven for not only street art and graffiti but for any person who is creative who needs an outlet. The exhibit is a celebration of the evolution of street art, with a 'Then and Now' themed showcase planned for August, paying respect to the 'OGs' who popularized the art form.
One thing that immediately stands out is the deep history of Philly graffiti. Philadelphia, with its thousands of murals, is often referred to as the 'Mural Capital of the World'. The city's anti-graffiti network, which started in 1984, has evolved into a public arts program that celebrates the art form. The exhibit is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the graffiti artists, who have overcome numerous obstacles to create a space that is both beautiful and meaningful. The fact that the artists are now being recognized as trailblazers in street art history is a significant development, and the exhibit is a celebration of their talent and dedication.
What many people don't realize is the impact that graffiti art has had on the city's culture and history. The 'wicked' variant of the Philly gangster handstyle, for example, is a testament to the city's rich history of street art. The exhibit is a reminder that graffiti art is not just a form of vandalism but a powerful medium for self-expression and community building. It is a celebration of the city's diverse and vibrant culture, and a testament to the power of art to transform spaces and inspire change.
If you take a step back and think about it, the exhibit is a reflection of the city's evolution. It is a celebration of the past, present, and future of street art, and a reminder that art can be a powerful force for change. The exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of Philadelphia, and a testament to the power of art to bring people together and inspire creativity.
