A Bronx Writers’ History: 1968–1978 Exhibit

A Bronx Writers' History: 1968–1978, the newest exhibit at the Museum of Bronx History (the national landmark Valentine-Varian house), curated by legend STAFF 161, highlights the histories and recent work on canvases of Bronx pioneers of writing—what outsiders know as “graffiti”—during the years 1968–1978, including AJ 161, BOMB ONE, BUTCH 2, CHAIN 3, CHARMIN 65, COMET 1, RIFF 170, and STAFF 161. The exhibit traces the early origins of writing, as an underground youth movement in The Bronx and Upper Manhattan, through its dramatic emergence in "pieces" on the outside of trains and, eventually, into galleries around the world.

The exhibit also includes street art on canvases from Bronx students from High School for Contemporary Arts and Academy for Scholarship and Entrepreneurship. This art was produced as part of an anti-gun violence program, taught by STAFF 161. The program highlights the significant mindset of peace that animated early writing culture, as an escape from the gang violence in the streets of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Students were challenged to create works of art that meditate on the implications of this history in the present, using art as a medium for positive expression.

Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children and seniors. Includes an optional guided tour of the historic house and all open galleries.

Private tours for $25 for adults and $12 for children are also available throughout the week: education@bronxhistoricalsociety.org.