Graffiti art, long vilified and often associated with vandalism, has found a unique and unexpected home in the heart of Philadelphia's Suburban Station. Step Outside, an artist-led initiative, has transformed a once-empty concourse into a vibrant gallery, showcasing the raw and rebellious nature of street art. This article delves into the story of 'Platform X', a bold statement in the art world, challenging the traditional boundaries of gallery spaces and the perception of graffiti.
A Subterranean Gallery
As you step into Suburban Station from the 16th Street entrance, the vast, bare-walled concourse greets you with a sense of emptiness. But then, a striking sight emerges. A mural, designed to resemble a subway car, dominates the space. Its interior is a canvas of graffiti, paintings, and drawings, a stark contrast to the sterile environment. The artists behind this installation, who prefer to remain anonymous due to the legal implications of graffiti, have created a sanctuary for their craft.
The organizers, including Doomed Future, Philmadelphia, Inphltrate, Zucati Zuce, Raw G Zero, and Ianismymiddlename, have transformed this public space into a haven for street art. The collaboration with SEPTA and a private realtor showcases the growing acceptance of graffiti as a legitimate art form, even in unexpected venues.
A rebellious semiquincentennial celebration
The theme 'USA 250' brings together 250 artists, each contributing their unique style to the 'Platform X' exhibit. One piece, titled 'American Religion', portrays Benjamin Franklin with a crown of thorns and the ominous words 'In God We Lust' above his head, a stark contrast to the typical patriotic depictions of the Founding Father. This rebellious yet optimistic view reflects the frustration and burnout felt by many street artists.
Banjax the Balaclava's 'Love is Not Dead' is another standout piece, featuring angry figures holding anarchist flags in front of City Hall. The artist emphasizes the importance of love amidst the rage, a message that resonates with those fighting against injustices.
Anti-establishment art
Graffiti, by its very nature, challenges the establishment. The city's recent announcement of the Gateways to Philadelphia project, investing $11.5 million in beautification initiatives, including graffiti removal, highlights the ongoing tension between the art form and authorities. However, artists like Satan, who has been creating graffiti for over 40 years, see this as an opportunity for growth and recognition.
The 'Platform X' exhibit has been a hit with visitors, who have actively engaged with the art. Families, in particular, have embraced the interactive aspect, adding their own chalk drawings and spray-painted tags. This inclusive approach has made the show a safe haven for both artists and art enthusiasts.
A historical evolution
Philadelphia's graffiti scene has a deep-rooted history, with artists like Lewis Pittman, also known as King Lewis, reflecting on the past. As a teenager, Pittman, along with other wallwriters like Cool Cone and Cornbread, popularized the iconic Philadelphia 'gangster' handstyle. Their work, often associated with public transportation, has left an indelible mark on the city's culture.
Cone, a founding member of the Imperial Casanova Persuaders (ICP), one of the earliest graffiti clubs, recalls the days of tagging buses and trains. Despite the challenges and legal implications, the ICP helped originate the 'wicked' variant of the gangster handstyle, adding a wild energy to their lettering.
A lasting impact
The 'Platform X' exhibit not only showcases the present but also pays homage to the past. Step Outside plans to continue its 'Then and Now' themed showcases, celebrating the evolution of street art. By incorporating the work of 'OGs' like Cone and Pittman, the initiative ensures that the history and impact of graffiti are not forgotten.
As the exhibit continues to attract visitors throughout the summer, it serves as a testament to the enduring power of street art. The closing receptions on July 10th and 11th will be a celebration of the artists' hard work and a reminder that graffiti is more than just vandalism; it's a form of expression that challenges and inspires.
