
Richard "Richie" Mirando, also known as SEEN, is a renowned American graffiti artist born in 1961 in The Bronx, New York City. SEEN started his career in graffiti art in the early 1970s, and by the late '70s, he became one of the most prominent artists in the graffiti movement. SEEN's work can be found on numerous subway trains and walls throughout New York City, and he's often regarded as the "Godfather of Graffiti." He played a significant role in elevating graffiti from a form of vandalism to an accepted and appreciated form of art. SEEN's work is characterized by vibrant colors, dynamic letters, and unique characters. In the 1980s, SEEN shifted his focus from trains to studio work, creating canvases that were exhibited in galleries across the United States and Europe. He has also ventured into other forms of art, such as tattooing and even sculpting. SEEN's influence on graffiti and street art can still be observed today, as he has inspired countless artists worldwide to embrace the style and culture of graffiti art. SEEN, aka Richard Mirando, pioneered a unique and groundbreaking style in the world of graffiti art. His lettering style, which evolved from simple tags to more complex and intricate designs, helped to define the aesthetic of graffiti during its formative years. His work has been showcased in various exhibitions, including the prestigious Sidney Janis Gallery in New York City, which hosted a group show featuring works from SEEN and other graffiti artists in 1980. This exhibition, called "Graffiti Art Success for America," was a pivotal moment in legitimizing graffiti as an art form and cementing its place in the art world. In addition to his impact on graffiti art, SEEN has also ventured into other creative industries. He has designed graphics for video games, including the iconic game "Marc Ecko's Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure," which is centered around the world of graffiti. He has also collaborated with major fashion brands such as Supreme and Louis Vuitton, further integrating graffiti into popular culture. SEEN's influence extends beyond his artwork; he has mentored numerous graffiti artists, helping to shape the future of the art form. His work and dedication to the graffiti movement have left an indelible mark on the art world and have made him a pivotal figure in the history of contemporary urban art.