Artist: John Matos Crash
Title: Slam
Medium: Original Watercolor
Size: 22 x 14.75 Inches (Framed: 32 × 24.5 inches)
Year: 1994
Notes: Hand Signed and Dated. Acquired from Art Link International who represented the artist.
About: Growing up in the Bronx during the vibrant tumult of the 1960s and '70s, John “Crash” Matos embarked on his journey as a graffiti artist at the tender age of 13, armed with nothing but a can of spray paint and a boundless creative spirit. Venturing into the gritty canvas of New York City's subway yards, he immersed himself in the underground art scene, leaving his mark on the city's pulse by adorning subway trains with his iconic tag—CRASH. Undeterred by the economic challenges of the era, Crash's distinctive, blocky signature became a fixture of the subway landscape throughout the '70s and '80s, defining an era of artistic rebellion amidst urban turmoil. As the art world began to take notice, Crash's transition from the subway to the gallery was catalyzed by the support and encouragement of his contemporaries, most notably the influential Keith Haring. By the 1980s, Crash's explosive outdoor murals found a new canvas on the more contained planes of gallery walls, marking a pivotal moment in his artistic evolution. Yet, even amidst growing recognition and acclaim, Crash remains steadfast in his commitment to his craft, tirelessly pursuing commissions and collaborations that continue to push the boundaries of his creativity. Looking to the future with unbridled enthusiasm, Crash sees his path as one paved with endless opportunities for expression and exploration. With a mantra of "more work, more painting, more life," he embraces the journey ahead with the same passion and vigor that fueled his graffiti beginnings in the bustling streets of New York City.