Parts of the iconic graffiti collection of Galerie Thomas are now for sale. Discover outstanding works by US-American artists of the 1980s.
Pushing boundaries with their work, Graffiti artist were always testing new forms of expression that made them instantly recognizable. In the 1970s, a new generation emerged, not just of youth but of experienced artists who developed their skills to a professional level. They no longer just sprayed their tags; they experimented with larger formats, incorporating elements of studio work and creating masterpieces on canvas and walls.
Graffiti became a cultural phenomenon, not only as a form of protest but also as a way to challenge the norms of public space and artistic expression. The art formed part of American culture, not only through its technique - spray cans - but also in its form and content, challenging advertising and consumerism. Names like Crash, Seen, and Zephyr became icons.
In 1984, our gallery presented a groundbreaking exhibition that showcased the raw energy and ingenuity of those graffiti artists. This exhibition marked a significant moment in the recognition of graffiti as a legitimate art form. Visitors were invited to experience the intensity and vibrancy of urban street culture within a refined, institutional space. The exhibition not only validated graffiti as an artistic movement but also bridged the gap between the underground and the mainstream, paving the way for graffiti’s continued evolution and its eventual acceptance within the broader art world.
Today, graffiti is no longer just a fleeting act of rebellion but has become a respected form of artistic expression.
