Update

Things have been busy at Mighty Tanaka HQ, as we continue to curate a variety of shows throughout 2009.  Both Mike Schreiber’s show entitled TRUE as well as the 2012 show featuring AVOID, BLOKE and FARO were a success, beginning the summer on a high note.  Moving into July, we are fortunate enough to be blessed with another show at Dapper Dan’s Imperial Gallery on 14th St in Manhattan.  Opening July 17th, Mighty Tanaka will re-hash an old idea in a better suited location to bring you Alexandra Pacula and JMR in a double-solo show.  Furthermore, we are hard at work to bring you the official Mighty Tanaka website re-launch.  We will bring you greater accessibility, larger and more concise inventory section, music and regular updates.  Stay tuned for more information!!

In the meantime, check out the latest press from The Village Voice, Brooklyn Street Art, NY Art Beat, BushwickBK and Fecal Face

Mighty Tanaka and Factory Fresh Present: 2012

The notorious AVOID, BLOKE and FARO converge at Factory Fresh, bringing with them an assorted collection of unique styles that exemplify the next generation of NYC street art and graffiti.  The three artists known on the streets for ridiculously massive tags, culturally inspired graffiti and paper airplanes and airships have caught many peoples eye in both Manhattan and Brooklyn. On June 5th they will present their artwork as a group in a gallery for the first time.

The show is based on the year 2012, which represents a notion of change and transition within the world, marking the end of the Mayan calendar.  Many view this year with apprehension, prophesying apocalypse, climate meltdown or a spiritual awakening.  Currently, through the economic crisis and constant warfare, an artistic shift has taken place on the streets of New York City.  Artists AVOID, BLOKE and FARO signify a changing of the guard in graffiti and street art.  Meshing these two individual cultures into one, these three artists represent the overall change of how individuals view street art and graffiti, bringing it together as one.

AVOID, BLOKE and FARO have been constant contributors to the painted interpretation of the urban environment for many years now.  Each artist has developed a text-based style as well as iconic imagery that have become ubiquitous details within our daily lives.  Through blending their ideals and styles, they have created a symbolized view of the streets that transcends one world and ushers in another.  As we approach this time of great change, the 2012 show places the viewer in the middle of the transformation, setting about on an adventure through a shifting paradigm of the world.   It seeks to enlighten and project the change that is constantly around us with the progression of both society and art.

2012 runs from June 5 – June 21 at Factory Fresh, Bushwick, Brooklyn.

Mighty Tanaka Presents: TRUE, Twelve Years of Photography by Mike Schreiber

***LOCATION CHANGE***

Due to circumstances beyond our control, TRUE, The Photography of Mike Schreiber has been relocated to an amazing venue called Dapper Dan Imperial Gallery, 139 West 14th St. between 6th and 7th Ave, Manhattan.  Please join us this Saturday, May 16th, 6-10pm.  Show runs til Friday, May 22, between Noon-7pm

With spoken word, beats and rhymes, Hip Hop has established itself as the voice of the city, exemplifying aspects of life that are often beyond our imagination. It is through the window of photography that provides the imagery of the fabled lifestyles of the lyricist and a face along with it.  Through this often overlooked juncture, the true emotion and bravado of the figure can truly be witnessed by individuals throughout the world.

TRUE, Twelve Years of Photography by Mike Schreiber exemplifies the image of some of the world’s top Hip Hop icons, placing forth a sense of reality that is often obscured through other forms of media.  Additionally, Schreiber juxtaposes Hip Hop imagery with multi-cultural authenticity that he has captured during his travels. Earning a degree in Anthropology from the University of Connecticut, Schreiber is a self-taught photographer, who possesses an eye for unique and intriguing social situations.  Having trekked the world, documenting his journeys, his socially conscious style adds an aesthetic, which is both gripping and provocative.  His photography has been featured in publications such as Esquire, XXL, Vibe and many others.

Through his work with various Hip Hop artists, TRUE provides a means for individuals to emotionally connect with their heroes of Hip Hop culture.  Schreiber’s ability to expose the rappers true identity sheds the pretense of expectation and replaces it with a raw interpretation of direct feelings.  TRUE is the realism and expression that surrounds our daily lives.

Opening Saturday, May 16 6pm-10pm.  Dapper Dan Imperial Gallery, 139 West 14th Street between 6th and 7th Ave, Manhattan.  This show will be up until Friday, May 22 between Noon and 7pm