BLADE, whose real name is Steven Ogburn, is widely recognized as a pivotal figure in the world of street art, pop art, and graffiti art. His work in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, primarily in New York City, made significant contributions to the recognition and acceptance of graffiti as a legitimate art form. Born in the Bronx in 1957, BLADE started his artistic journey at a young age. By the mid-1970s, he was a prominent fixture in the New York City subway graffiti scene, a space where he honed his skills and developed his distinctive style. Known as "The King of Graffiti," BLADE painted more than five thousand subway cars, a feat that remains unmatched in the history of graffiti art. BLADE's style is emblematic of the classic New York graffiti aesthetic. His work is characterized by bold, colorful, and large-scale pieces, often incorporating his name in complex, interlocking letters. Such signature style was innovative at that time, and it introduced a new level of complexity to graffiti art. His mastery of color, form, and composition pushed the boundaries of what was considered possible within this medium. In the late 1980s, as the New York City government began to crack down on subway graffiti, BLADE transitioned to creating works on canvas. This shift marked a critical juncture in his career and in the wider acceptance of graffiti as a form of high art. He was one of the first graffiti artists to successfully make this transition, opening doors for many who would follow in his footsteps. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, including the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles and the Whitney Museum in New York, further cementing his reputation as an influential figure in the world of street and pop art. In addition to his individual accomplishments, BLADE also played a vital role in the formation and development of graffiti culture. He was a founding member of The Crazy 5, a renowned graffiti crew that was influential in the early days of New York graffiti. His collaborations with other artists and his mentorship of younger graffiti writers have fostered a sense of community within this often-misunderstood art form. BLADE's contributions to the world of graffiti, street, and pop art cannot be overstated. His innovative style, pioneering spirit, and commitment to community have left an indelible mark on these artistic realms. As graffiti continues to gain recognition and respect as a legitimate art form, the work of BLADE remains a touchstone, reflecting both the history and the potential of this vibrant and dynamic medium.