The Bronx Museum – Futura 2000: Breaking Out

     The exhibition Futura 2000: Breaking Out presents an impressive range of works, from collaborations with major fashion brands to individual pieces of fine art. The initial display features partnerships with brands like Nike, Off-White, and Murakami, emphasizing the artist's strong presence in commercial art. However, as the exhibition unfolds, it shows a deeper and more personal aspect.

    A striking element of the exhibition is the way Futura integrates street art techniques into fine art, exploring different mediums while challenging traditional boundaries. This effort reflects a conscious move to break away from the limitations and stigma often associated with graffiti, creating work that resonates on multiple levels.

    For example, the piece Under Metropolis (1983) demonstrates a unique use of aerosol spray directly on unprimed canvas, allowing the surface to absorb the paint and develop a distinctive texture. Another standout, Invasion From Blue City, features intricate linework and layered techniques. Through the deliberate removal of paint layers to reveal the black undercoat, the artwork achieves a depth and complexity that feels both tactile and dynamic. He allows forms to float freely across the surface, suggesting the expansiveness of outer space. 

    One particularly fascinating aspect of the exhibition is the inclusion of Futura’s FL-001 Pointman. The display features both a painting, Untitled CIRCA 2000s, and a sculpture of FL-001 Pointman crafted from aluminum. The painting appears as a conceptual draft of the signature Pointman figure, which evokes an otherworldly, alien presence. Additionally, the way the aluminum sculpture interacts with the surrounding white space adds an intriguing dimensionality, drawing attention to its form and presence within the exhibit.

    This exhibition not only highlights Futura2000's evolution as an artist but also showcases his ability to transcend genres, redefining the boundaries between street art and contemporary fine art.