Al Diaz is an American artist born in 1961 in New York City. He is best known for his graffiti work in the 1970s and 1980s as part of the legendary SAMO© graffiti duo with Jean-Michel Basquiat. Diaz's art career began when he met Jean-Michel Basquiat in high school, and the two artists began collaborating on street art under the moniker SAMO©, an acronym for "Same Old Shit." SAMO©'s street art was known for its cryptic messages and political commentary, and they quickly gained a following in the New York art scene. After Basquiat's rise to fame in the 1980s, Diaz continued to create art on his own, exhibiting in galleries and museums around the world. Diaz's work often explores themes of language, communication, and identity. He is known for using found objects, such as old newspapers and cardboard boxes, as canvases for his art. In recent years, Diaz has returned to his graffiti roots, creating large-scale murals and street art installations around the world. He has also continued to exhibit in galleries, showcasing his paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works. Diaz's work has been recognized for its unique blend of street art and fine art, and he has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. His work can be found in public and private collections around the world, and he remains an influential figure in the street art community.