Exploring the Vibrant Evolution of Graffiti in “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting”

Delving into the colorful world of graffiti, the graffiti documentary “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” captures the essence of urban painting as a transformative art form. Directed by Pablo Aravena, the film journeys from the burgeoning street art scenes in New York City to the esteemed galleries of Tokyo. Emphasizing the craft’s diverse expressions and the artists’ quest for visibility, this visual narrative uncovers the compelling tales of creativity and ambition that propel the urban painting movement.

Illustrated through the wide-ranging styles and bold statements of graffiti’s most iconic figures, “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” offers a deep dive into an art form often misunderstood and controversial. From its inception as a voice for the voiceless to its rise as a celebrated artistic genre, the documentary sheds light on the labyrinth of motivations that define the modern graffiti artist. It’s an homage to street art and an insightful exploration of its eclectic global evolution.

Key Takeaways

• An in-depth look into the origins and global spread of graffiti as an influential urban painting phenomenon.
• Insights into the intricate motivations and the pursuit of recognition among graffiti artists.
• A portrayal of graffiti’s unique journey from the streets of Gotham to Tokyo’s established art scene.
• An exploration of how street artists navigate the tension between underground culture and gallery acceptance.
• Documentary evidence of graffiti’s maturation and validation as a legitimate art form.

The Sprawling Roots of Urban Graffiti Culture

The genesis of graffiti culture can be traced back to the tumultuous streets of 1970s New York City, affectionately known as Gotham. Amidst financial hardship and social upheaval, marginalized voices found their medium of expression through the vivid strokes of aerosol paint. This was a time when the powerless discovered their power, immortalizing their existence on subway cars, alleyways, and the bricked faces of buildings. It wasn’t merely an act of rebellion; it was a statement of presence, a proclamation of identity in a city that seemed to be crumbling under its own weight.

One of the prominent figures who set the stage for urban art during this epoch was Lee Quinones. His works, along with others, gradually elevated graffiti from obscure street corners to the mainstream consciousness. The urban art form’s journey from the Gotham roots to Tokyo galleries is a testament to its transformative power and worldwide appeal.

The Emergence from Gotham to the Tokyo Gallery Scene

From the dense boroughs of New York, the graffiti wave rippled across continents, eventually infiltrating the high-end art districts of Tokyo. The transition from New York’s subways to Tokyo’s prestigious galleries narrates an extraordinary cultural migration. It illustrates the metamorphosis of urban art, once perceived as vandalism, now commanding respect and critical acclaim within the art world’s elite corridors. This epochal shift signifies not just a geographical leap but also a monumental climb in the societal recognition of graffiti art forms.

Graffiti as a Voice for the Powerless in the 1970s

The 1970s were a decisive decade for the global sensibility of what constituted art and who was granted the mantle of ‘artist’. Graffiti culture, initially dismissed as unruly scribbles by the disgruntled or disaffected, became the visual lexicon for a generation eager to communicate outside the bounds of traditional platforms. As the hegemony of formal art institutions persisted, these artists on the fringes carved out an indelible niche that forever altered the artistic and cultural landscape of cities across the world.

Retrospectively, this period was a confluence of intent, technique, and revolution—fuelled by the relentless need to be heard and seen. Urban art, in its audacity and rawness, epitomized not only the visual but also the vocal uprising of those who had been subjected to silence. And as the documentary “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” poignantly illustrates, the essence of graffiti is inherently tied to the voices it extrudes from the shadows of obscurity onto the luminescent walls of fame.

Profiles in Paint: The Artists Behind the Cans

The realm of urban painting is vibrant and diverse, inhabited by a myriad of graffiti artists who channel their creative pulse through the nozzle of a spray can. To comprehend the entire spectrum of this art form, it’s imperative to delve into the personal journeys and artistic evolution of these creative mavericks. “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting,” a seminal documentary, places a spotlight on influential figures such as Lee Quinones and the enigmatic Banksy, showcasing their indelible mark on the graffiti landscape.

The documentary peels back the layers of vitriolic defiance that often shroud graffiti artists, touching on the aspirations and inspirations behind their work. Artists like Lee Quinones illustrate the transition from street to peak, unraveling the history of graffiti from voice of the poor to an acclaimed urban narrative. Traversing continents and canvases, these artists manifest their ethos onto city walls—terrains they don’t own but undoubtedly transform.

Banksy, a titan in the shadowy world of street art, redefines the concept of fame and identity through his illicit and politically charged stencil pieces. His ability to remain anonymous while being universally recognized encapsulates the essence of graffiti’s paradox. The works of these artists are woven with an impregnable thread of mystique and unceasing thrill — a testament to the adrenaline-fueled joy of unauthorized creation.

“It’s not just about art; it’s about making a statement, leaving a mark for the world to see and contemplate.” – A Graffiti Artist’s Credo

The documentary does not merely present these artists as iconoclastic mavericks; it underscores the calculated and passionate nature of their craft. Be it through candid scraps of a street-side interview or the intimate buzz of a late-night tagging session, viewers are offered a rare glimpse into the world that throbs beneath the veneer of each sprayed glyph and mural.

1. An intimate look at the life and works of Lee Quinones, a pioneer of the New York graffiti scene.
2. Banksy’s socio-political commentary and its global influence on the public perception of graffiti.
3. The documentation of various artists’ nuanced philosophies and stylistic divergences.

The mosaic of graffiti is ceaselessly evolving, infused with the relentless drive of artists compelled to articulate their narrative. From the raw, rugged alleys of the Bronx to the polished walls of modern galleries, their stories unfold: a fusion of audacity and artistry chronicled in “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting.”

Artistic Evolution: The Transition from Tags to Galleries

The landscape of urban art has undergone a profound transformation, evolving from the raw, often clandestine gestures of taggers to the polished environs of high-profile galleries. It’s within this journey from concrete to canvas where the artistic evolution of graffiti can be charted, examining how the graffiti transition has cultivated a new era of gallery recognition.

The Role of Style and Identity in Urban Painting

In tracing the path of graffiti from subversive street art to celebrated gallery exhibits, the inherent role of style and identity is underscored. For artists, graffiti is not only a means of self-expression but also a powerful tool for crafting an indelible personal brand within the chaotic urban landscape and, eventually, within the curated spaces of art establishments.

As urban paintings began to transition onto the sanctified white walls of galleries, it was the unique styles and profound personal messages that caught the attention of art enthusiasts and curators alike. The pulsating energy, the nuanced signatures, and the vibrant palettes—each element contributed to an artistic evolution that redefined the parameters of visual artistry.

Keith Haring: A Singular Mention Among Pioneers

Within the canon of graffiti’s ascendancy, Keith Haring stands out as a pivotal figure. Haring’s work bridged the gap between the ephemeral nature of street art and the enduring substance of gallery art. His kinetic figures and abstract marks, once a common sight on New York’s subway walls, transitioned to galleries, attesting to the dynamism and potential for graffiti transition into mainstream artistic evolution.

Haring’s legacy is not just archived in the images he left behind but also in the larger narrative that graffiti, as an art form, deserves its space in the echelons of recognized artistry. His remarkable journey contributes to the broader story of how street art, once derided and dismissed, sought and achieved a transformative gallery recognition.

“Through the vivid legacy of artists like Keith Haring, graffiti has emerged from its underground roots to command a prominent place in the contemporary art world.”

Below is a comparative table outlining key elements of the graffiti’s evolution from street tags to gallery art, demonstrating the transformation and diverse achievements of graffiti artists:

Stage	Style/Technique	Exemplary Figures	Space	Recognition
Early Graffiti	Tags and Bombing	Lee Quinones	Public spaces, Subways	Underground
Mid-Transition	Murals and Large-Scale Pieces	Jean-Michel Basquiat	Street walls, Outdoors	Rising interest in Art Circles
Gallery Phase	Canvas Work, Installations	Keith Haring, Banksy	Galleries, Exhibitions	Established Art Form

The rise of graffiti has not only challenged traditional art forms but has also invigorated the art world with its undeniable vibrancy and transformative power. The artistic evolution of graffiti, remarkably represented by artists like Keith Haring, demonstrates a remarkable graffiti transition into the sphere of gallery recognition, offering compelling new narratives and vibrant visuals that continue to resonate with audiences globally.

The Psychology of Urban Painting: Ego and Visibility

At the heart of the urban landscape, amongst the clamor and concrete, lies a pulsating need for self-expression. This need is vividly brought to life in “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting,” which delves into the graffiti psychology and the intrinsic human desire for recognition that drives artists to brandish their spray cans and claim visibility. The omnipresent artist ego plays a pivotal role in this narrative, serving both as the engine of creativity and the hunger for fame.

The documentary reveals a world where street art visibility equates to a loudspeaker for the otherwise voiceless. For many graffiti artists, the sheer scale and reach of their work signify success. This relentless pursuit to be seen propels them to scale walls, bridges, and buildings, transforming drab structures into personal billboards that shout their aliases into the urban ether.

While some use their craft to convey pressing social commentary, for many, the act of marking territory is deeply rooted in the pleasure derived from the risk and the thrill of potential infamy. The film unpacks layers of motivations, presenting the spectator with a tableau of artists all seeking the same endgame:

“To be known, to be seen, to be remembered.”

Understanding this psychological drive, “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” underscores the lengths to which artists will go to achieve visibility. They navigate the dynamics of night and shadow to emerge with colorful expressions of their psyche, void of restriction, rich with individualistic bravado. In this context, graffiti becomes more than art; it becomes a psychological act of assertion, defiance, and, ironically, a bid for permanence in the transient space of the street.

This projection of ego draws an audience, both admirer and critic alike, forcing a dialogue about the place of graffiti within the art world and broader society. The artists’ egos not only command attention but also challenge preconceived notions about the value and meaning of their often unauthorized canvases. In a society where visibility can often lead to opportunity, the psychological elements at play within the world of graffiti demand consideration and understanding.

• The intersection between the psychology of self-expression and urban environments
• Exploration of the motivations driving graffiti artists to seek visibility
• Connections between recognition in urban art and psychological ego asserts

The underlying thread of “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” is that the city’s walls become mirrors, reflecting the minds and aspirations of those who paint them. In grasping this truth, one can comprehend the complex tapestry of need, ego, and expression that defines the graffiti artist.

The Debate Over Urban Painting: Vandalism or Valid Art Form?

The urban painting debate strikes a resonant chord within “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting,” a documentary which addresses the polarizing discussion of whether graffiti is heralded as a vibrant expression of culture or maligned as an act of graffiti vandalism. At the epicenter of this discourse, the film navigates through the nuanced perspectives of artists, critics, and public voices, each battling to define the boundaries of what constitutes valid art.

Some view the spontaneous bursts of color and shape sprawled across metro walls and bridges as a defacement of public property, an illicit marking of territory that crosses legal and ethical lines. These detractors argue that such acts diminish the aesthetic of urban environments and disrespect the value of community spaces.

In stark contrast, proponents of graffiti as an art form advocate for its art validation, praising its creativity and the ability of artists to convert nondescript urban canvases into thought-provoking masterpieces. They argue that this form of painting, often executed under the cloak of night, brings life, identity, and a voice to otherwise static cityscapes.

The documentary investigates this dichotomy, juxtaposing the visceral thrill and personal fulfillment artists derive from their craft against societal classifications of order and property rights. It sheds light on what some artists describe as an exhilarating “full body orgasm” obtained from the daring and often risky endeavor of bringing their visions to public attention. This potent mixture of adrenaline and artistic passion underscores the powerful impetus behind creating art that is as much about the act of expression as it is the end result.

Much of the focus is placed on the context in which these urban artworks emerge. While some pieces may be unauthorized, the messages they carry are frequently loaded with social commentary, political satire, and a craving for connectivity in an increasingly isolated world. This understanding introduces new dimensions to the dialogue, allowing us to question whether the intent and execution of these works can transcend – and thus redefine – the notion of vandalism.

“Urban painting captures the pulse of the city and its inhabitants, challenging the perception of public spaces and the stories they tell.” – Excerpt from “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting”

Aspect	View on Urban Painting	Considerations
Legality	Often considered vandalism	Unauthorized, can be punishable by law
Artistic Merit	Increasingly seen as valid art	Recognized in galleries, celebrated by pop culture
Community Impact	Opinions divided	Some see it as disruptive, others as enhancing
Social Commentary	Frequently poignant	Offers reflections on society, culture, and politics

Undeniably, “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” serves as a potent catalyst for discussion in the urban painting debate. As audiences are taken on a visual and thematic journey, they are encouraged to ponder over the complexities of categorizing such an ebullient and controversial art form. While the debate may not resolve easily between notions of graffiti vandalism and art validation, the conversation itself continues to evolve, much like the painting on the walls of our cities.

Next: A Primer on Urban Painting as Documentary Evidence

In the spectrum of modern art documentaries, “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” emerges as a profound piece of documentary evidence that meticulously charts the ascendancy of graffiti from subversive street artistry to a legitimate pillar of urban culture. This urban painting documentary navigates the viewer through a visual journey accentuated by the narratives of those whose lives are entrenched in its practice. Directed by Pablo Aravena, the film positions itself uniquely within the genre, resonating with enthusiasts and newcomers to the art form alike.

What sets this film apart is its candid exploration of the motivators behind the graffiti artists’ urge to etch their mark upon the urban canvas. This film review seeks to unravel “Next” not as a mere chronicle of events or displays but as validation of the global influence graffiti holds. It bears witness to the passage of art from clandestine corners to the limelight of international acclaim.

The voices of both pioneer and contemporary muralists are interwoven seamlessly, forming a tapestry that extends far beyond mere artistic endeavor. Through Aravena’s lens, the universe of urban painting is put into focus—transcending geographical bounds to spotlight a vivid constellation of styles, from the hallmark tags of the Bronx’s overlooked expanses to the polished exhibitions of Tokyo’s art scene.

“Aravena’s vision allows for a multiplicity of stories to coalesce into a singular, potent narrative.”

Perhaps most compelling is the film’s ability to serve as a historical record. The cultural significance captured within each frame of “Next” serves as a testament to graffiti’s enduring legacy and its mainstream penetration. It constructs a narrative that asserts the validity of street art as a transformative medium—one fashioned by the hands of those who vie for the public eye.

• Impassioned chronicles of pioneering graffiti artists and their influence on urban culture.
• An analysis of the nuanced roles graffiti plays within diverse communities.
• A reflection on the societal acceptance of urban painting as it seeps into the fabric of global art tradition.

In digesting “Next,” one is reminded of the inextricable link between art and the environment from which it springs forth. This documentary—detailed, discerning, and undeterred by the naysayer’s critique—authenticates the merit of graffiti as an art form that speaks the language of rebellion, resilience, and, ultimately, recognition.

Navigating the Global Urban Painting Movement

The documentary “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” is a seminal exploration of the explosive growth and global graffiti movement that has transcended its New York roots. The tapestry of urban art, as depicted by director Pablo Aravena, is drenched in the history of graffiti’s transformation from local enclaves of expressive dissent to a universally acclaimed art form.

The Worldwide Influence: From New York to Global Recognition

The chronicle of spray-painted initials blossoming into international murals tells an overarching story of cultural expansion and exchange. With New York City as the initial canvas, street artists wielded their cans to scribe a visual language that resonated with the underrepresented. Pioneers like Lee Quinones paved the way, but as the film unfolds, it reveals how these storied streets’ echoes reached far beyond their pavements. They reached the bustling alleyways of Tokyo, the concrete canvases of Berlin, and the hallowed halls of art galleries worldwide, securing international recognition and influence for graffiti artists.

The Importance of Urban Art in International Documentary

“Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” underlines the indelible urban art influence on the international documentary scene. By offering deep insights into the artists’ creative processes, societal impacts, and rich cultural narratives, the film elevates the discourse on urban art. This global survey of graffiti’s sprawling canvases enshrines the medium within the annals of international recognition, proving that the language of urban art is not only universal but also a vital conduit of contemporary artistic expression.

Funding the Artform: The Economic Landscape of Urban Painting

The gritty allure of urban art has captured the fascination and pride of city dwellers and art aficionados alike, with cities across the globe boasting vibrant murals and captivating street installations. However, the journey from an artist’s vision to an executed piece adorning an urban landscape is fraught with economic hurdles. As “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” uncovers, the fuel propelling this artistic phenomenon has intricate ties with graffiti funding, the economic landscape, and the cultivation of urban painting sponsorship.

Director Pablo Aravena’s passion project stands as a testament to the arduous fiscal path traveled by those dedicated to bringing the bold colors of street art to public consciousness. Aravena’s own pockets were the initial source of capital, a gamble on the raw expression of urban creativity. But his perseverance eventually led to fostering relationships with arts councils and securing patronage from influential supporters. One notable figure, clothing designer Agnes B., recognized graffiti’s blend of counterculture and cachet, providing the critical financial infusion necessary to sustain and elevate the project.

The financial aspects addressed in the documentary underline a broader conversation regarding the sustainability and recognition of urban painting within artistic and monetary circles. Probing beyond the layers of paint, the film exposes the realities of graffiti funding, a mix of grassroots efforts and strategic sponsorship that collectively shape the existence and persistence of graffiti art.

“The support of enthusiasts and art patrons is crucial in transforming graffiti from ephemeral street sketches to immortalized pieces of cultural heritage.”

Graffiti’s footing in the modern economic domain remains complex—caught in a constant push and pull between its anti-establishment origins and its burgeoning status within the art market. As a dynamic facet of the film’s narrative, the fiscal entanglements echo the need for systematic financial avenues to buttress the urban art scene, beckoning an appreciation for the networks of support that underpin the bright murals viewing us from the city’s veins.

• Initial personal investment by Aravena to bring the project to fruition
• Grants and funding from arts councils bolstering the project’s scope
• The integral role of Agnes B.’s sponsorship
• The tension between graffiti’s countercultural roots and the need for economic support

“Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” ultimately illustrates an evocative portion of the economic landscape — a slice of reality wherein art must often vie for viability, and where the vibrancy of the urban canvas depends on the confluence of vision, valor, and valuable resources.

The Contradictory Nature of Urban Painting’s Appeal

The world of urban painting is rife with contradictions that grapple with the thrill of the streets and the subsequent embrace by the formal art world. This paradox is at the very core of “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting,” a documentary that paints a vivid picture of artists straddling two worlds with contrasting values and expectations.

Underground Thrills vs. Mainstream Acceptance

There lies a deep-seated urban painting contradiction within graffiti culture. On one hand, artists relish the rush of creating clandestine works, reveling in the raw, unfiltered environment that the streets provide. The adrenaline-fueled nights, the ever-present risk of being caught, and the camaraderie among fellow graffiti artists add to the seductive allure of the underground. Yet, there’s also an undeniable yearning for mainstream acceptance within the same breath—the same artists who once found solace in the anonymity of street art now seek affirmation and permanence on gallery walls.

As graffiti enters discussions in art symposiums and displays in street art exhibitions, the artists behind these pieces are often met with a new set of challenges and criticisms. Critics and enthusiasts alike ponder if the rawness and authenticity of the art are compromised by this shift toward institutionalization.

The Dichotomy of Street vs. Gallery Exhibitions

Exploring further the divided loyalty is the juxtaposition between street canvases and gallery venues. Street exhibitions are colored by spontaneity, community engagement, and the transient aspect of the work itself, often subject to the whims of the environment or the city’s cleanup crews. In contrast, gallery exhibitions bestow a sense of legitimacy and eternalization—a recognition that elevates graffiti into a collectible and commercial genre.

This traversal from public spaces to private collections underlines a shift in audience as well. The once inadvertent viewers of urban neighborhoods are replaced by cultured collectors and critics, altering the reception and interpretation of the artwork. The dilemma multiplies as artists navigate through the art world, balancing their street credibility with the opportunities that the establishment offers.

Aspect	Street Art	Gallery Art
Space	Urban landscapes, public visibility	Curated environments, private collections
Audience	General public, community members	Art collectors, critics, gallery patrons
Validation	Community respect, subcultural pride	Institutional recognition, career opportunities
Purpose	Expressive freedom, social commentary	Artistic legacy, financial reward

The tension between the authenticity ingrained in street level creation and the allure of gallery exhibitions and their accompanying acclaim remains a central theme within the urban art scene. “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” captures this complexity with precision, presenting a multifaceted view that acknowledges both the roots and the blossoming branches of graffiti’s place in modern art culture.

Conclusion

The artistic landscape of graffiti has been remarkably recontextualized by “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting,” a documentary that digs into the heart of the urban painting phenomenon. Through its insightful exposition and dynamic narrative, the film has galvanized artistic discourse and challenged preconceived notions about this once marginalized art form. It stands as an influential catalyst for dialogue, opening eyes to the complexities and cultural potency of urban painting. The documentary’s spotlight on graffiti as an evolving platform for expression has left an indelible mark upon the art community and its observers.

The Impact of Next: A Primer on Urban Painting on Artistic Discourse

Pablo Aravena’s engaging film serves not only as a historical record but also as a bridge connecting street art to a wider audience. The profound artistic impact of the film lies in its ability to introduce a diverse tapestry of urban painting to the forefront of cultural discussions. Audiences are led to appreciate graffiti’s depth and complexity, acknowledging its rightful place in the pantheon of legitimate art forms. By infiltrating mainstream perception, the film has heightened awareness and respect for the techniques, messages, and societal implications embedded in the bold lines and vibrant colors of street art.

The Ongoing Legacy and Cultural Relevance of Urban Painting

Urban painting continues to weave its threads through the fabric of modern culture with a legacy that pulsates to the rhythm of city life. As demonstrated in “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting,” the intrinsic cultural relevance of graffiti transcends temporary trends. It carries forward an ongoing dialogue about identity, community, and the democratization of art. As society evolves, so too does the canvas of the city streets, serving as an ever-present reminder of the power of public art to provoke thought and reflect the human experience in all its rawness and splendor.

FAQ

What is “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” about?

“Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” is a documentary that explores the history, culture, and evolution of graffiti as an urban art form from its beginnings in New York City to its recognition in the art galleries of Tokyo.

Who directed “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting”?

The documentary was directed by Pablo Aravena, who traveled internationally to capture the diverse styles and stories within the graffiti movement.

Which graffiti artists are featured in the documentary?

The film features renowned artists like Lee Quinones, Heavyweight, Delta, Banksy, Kami and Sasu, Os Gêmeos, and Swoon, among others.

How does the film address the economics of graffiti?

The documentary reveals the financial challenges faced by artists and filmmakers in the graffiti community, highlighting the importance of support from arts councils and patrons like Agnes b. for broader recognition.

Does “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” discuss the debate over graffiti as art or vandalism?

Yes, it delves into the contentious debate by showing different perspectives on whether graffiti should be viewed as a valid art form or merely an act of vandalism.

How has graffiti transitioned from street tags to gallery art?

The film explores artistic evolution, showing how graffiti has developed from simple tagging into sophisticated art that is now recognized and valued in galleries, with artists navigating the tension between underground and mainstream acceptance.

Who is Keith Haring, and why is he mentioned in the documentary?

Keith Haring was a pioneering artist in the urban painting movement, known for his easily recognizable, bold lines and socially conscious themes. He is mentioned for his significant contribution to bringing graffiti into the art world.

What impact has “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” had on the perception of graffiti?

The film has played a transformative role in the dialogue surrounding urban art, influencing how graffiti is perceived in terms of cultural significance and legacy.

Is the desire for visibility a common theme among graffiti artists showcased in the film?

Yes, the documentary highlights the psychological aspects of graffiti artists’ motivations, particularly the desire for visibility and recognition within the urban painting community.

How does “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” depict the global influence of graffiti?

The film affirms the international scope of graffiti culture by featuring artist reflections from around the world, positioning urban art as an influential cultural medium within the global arts landscape.

What roles do style and personal identity play in urban painting, as shown in the film?

The documentary illustrates that style and personal identity are crucial in urban painting, with artists expressing themselves through unique visuals that bridge the gap between street-level work and gallery recognition.

Can you elaborate on the Underground Thrills vs. Mainstream Acceptance theme?

“Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” portrays the paradox faced by graffiti artists who relish the adrenaline of creating illicit street art while also seeking the legitimacy and acclaim associated with exhibiting in galleries.