Unveiling his artistic prowess against the backdrop of the vibrant New York art scene, Berlin-based emerging talent SIKE has set the stage ablaze with NYNW, a captivating ode to the groundbreaking “NEW YORK / NEW WAVE” exhibition that mesmerized art enthusiasts back in 1981. Drawing inspiration from the creative geniuses of that era, including Basquiat, Futura2000, and Dondi White, SIKE’s foray into the contemporary art scene redefines conventional exhibition norms by seamlessly intertwining visual art, fashion, and music into a multi-sensory experience like no other.
NYNW dares to challenge the status quo by breaking down the barriers between different art forms, adopting an avant-garde hanging technique where artworks elegantly suspend from metal chains, introducing a dynamic element of fluidity and dimension to the display. Departing from static presentations, this innovative arrangement aims to captivate viewers on a profound level, encouraging them to engage intimately with the art on a sensory and emotional level.
A standout feature of NYNW is the collaboration with London’s cutting-edge design duo, T.E.I.N. (The End Is Near), whose intricate fusion of threads on painted canvas mirrors the suspended chains holding the artworks, symbolizing a seamless blend of artistry and fashion. Renowned for their avant-garde aesthetics, T.E.I.N. has left an indelible mark on the art scene, captivating audiences at prestigious events like the Venice Biennale and the Tate Modern, and earning acclaim from global music icons such as Madonna, Billie Eilish, and Avril Lavigne for their wearable art creations.
Central to NYNW’s vision is the integration of music, painting, and fashion into a unified form of artistic expression. The accompanying EP, curated by SIKE in collaboration with acclaimed producers Gezin from the 808 Mafia, Matt Mendo, and NUGAT, features four tracks meticulously crafted to elevate the visual narrative. Paying tribute to influential band “Gray,” which once counted Basquiat among its members, the EP seamlessly blends various musical styles, from tranquil interludes to energetic beats, mirroring the diverse tones and textures of the displayed artworks.
NYNW emerges as a bold endeavor to push the boundaries of creativity and spark cross-disciplinary dialogues. By championing collaboration and embracing innovation, the project aims to ignite a fresh wave of artistic vigor and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the interconnected nature of different artistic expressions. The realization of NYNW is made possible through a partnership with the Pep Real Estate Group, underscoring the commitment to elevating and celebrating contemporary creative practices.
About the Artist: Born in 1998 in Berlin, SIKE delved into the world of graffiti culture at a tender age, receiving early mentorship from Berlin graffiti luminary PHOS4. His collaborative efforts culminated in the “STRONG CONNECTION” exhibition in 2016 and the solo showcase “EXITING CHILDHOOD” in Bavaria in 2017. Venturing into music production in late 2019, SIKE’s creative evolution led to the “CULTURES” series at the Circle Culture Gallery in Berlin, setting the stage for his NFT debut and unofficial music pursuits at the iconic Bierpinsel in 2022. Drawing inspiration from graffiti, abstract, and expressionist styles, SIKE’s eclectic artistic journey embodies a rich tapestry of influences and boundless creativity.
