Artwork Description
50th Anniversary BTS HPM Spray Paint Print by Beyond The Streets x TAKI 183 2-Color Screen Print on Coventry Rag Fine Art Paper Limited Edition Pop Street Artwork.
2019 Signed & Numbered Spray Paint HPM Embellished Limited Edition of 183 Artwork Size 18x24 Hand Deckled
50th Anniversary BTS HPM Spray Paint Print by Beyond The Streets x TAKI 183
The 50th Anniversary BTS HPM Spray Paint Print by Beyond The Streets in collaboration with TAKI 183 celebrates one of the most influential figures in graffiti culture. Released in 2019, this 2-color screen print on Coventry Rag fine art paper stands as a tribute to the origins of modern graffiti, highlighting the legacy of one of the first writers to tag the streets of New York City. Each piece in this limited edition of 183 is hand-embellished with spray paint, signed, and numbered, making it a unique collector’s item for enthusiasts of street pop art and graffiti artwork. TAKI 183 is a foundational figure in the world of graffiti, credited with pioneering modern tagging culture in the late 1960s. As a teenager from Washington Heights, he became known for writing his name in various locations across New York City, particularly on subway cars and walls. His work gained widespread attention after an article in The New York Times brought mainstream recognition to the movement. This 50th-anniversary print honors the impact of his work, visually representing the raw, bold style that inspired generations of graffiti artists.
The Art of Spray Paint and Screen Printing
This limited edition print masterfully combines the aesthetic of traditional tagging with the refined techniques of screen printing. The large, spray-painted TAKI 183 lettering dominates the composition, with smaller variations of his tag scattered throughout, reinforcing the repetition and placement strategies of graffiti culture. The use of raw black spray paint against a stark white background mimics the look of actual street tags, giving the piece an authentic feel that captures the energy of urban art. Beyond The Streets, an organization known for curating exhibitions and collaborations that highlight street pop art and graffiti artwork, brings a polished, gallery-quality approach to this edition while maintaining the raw essence of graffiti. The inclusion of hand embellishments ensures that no two prints are exactly alike, further enhancing the authenticity of the work. The hand-deckled edges add a layer of refinement, elevating the piece beyond standard screen prints and into the realm of fine art.
The Cultural Significance of TAKI 183
TAKI 183’s influence on graffiti culture cannot be overstated. His simple yet powerful signature laid the groundwork for future street artists, showing that a name could become an icon through sheer repetition and strategic placement. This print is not just a celebration of his work but also an acknowledgment of the entire graffiti movement that followed. Writers across the world took inspiration from TAKI 183’s bold approach, using walls, trains, and urban landscapes as canvases for self-expression. This piece serves as a direct link between the past and present of graffiti, emphasizing the importance of tagging in shaping contemporary street pop art and graffiti artwork. By producing this limited edition 50 years after TAKI 183 first made his mark, Beyond The Streets ensures that his contributions remain relevant in the evolving landscape of urban art. Collectors who acquire this print are not only investing in a piece of history but also in the ongoing legacy of street culture.
A Must-Have for Collectors of Street Pop Art
For those who appreciate street pop art and graffiti artwork, this 50th Anniversary BTS HPM Spray Paint Print is a significant addition to any collection. It captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of early tagging culture while offering a polished, gallery-ready presentation. The hand-embellished nature of each piece makes it a true original, bridging the gap between spontaneous street tagging and the world of fine art. This print is more than a tribute—it is a continuation of a movement that began with TAKI 183 and has since influenced artists, designers, and cultural movements worldwide. As graffiti continues to shape visual culture, pieces like this ensure that its pioneers are remembered and celebrated in the context of contemporary art.