By: Angela Caraway-Carlton
Graffiti takes center stage at this Wynwood museum
No matter the time of year, Wynwood is always the hub of art activity. With its ever-evolving murals and street art, it’s no surprise that The Museum of Graffiti, a first-of-its-kind museum that presents the colorful history of the global graffiti art movement, calls the artsy neighborhood home.
The creation of Alan Ket, a well-known graffiti artist, art collector and historian whose work is sprinkled throughout Wynwood, and Miami native and attorney, Allison Freidin, the entire museum is dedicated to the history and the OGs (the originals) of graffiti. “After more than 50 years in existence, how could we not? Graffiti is a true American art form that needs to be recognized and celebrated for its contribution to popular culture,” says Freidin about developing the graffiti museum in Wynwood. “Wynwood is arguably the birthplace of graffiti in Miami. Now that it is a hotbed for street art, graffiti and murals, there is no better neighborhood in the United States.”
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What To See
Like many museums these days, expect an experiential setting. The vibrant museum makes its mark with a permanent exhibition with paintings, mixed-media sculptures and interactive installations by some of New York City’s earliest graffiti writers, along with Miami greats like Crome, Raven and Verse; two feature exhibition galleries; and a rotating site-specific immersive installation. Education is also a central component of the museum’s programming plan. “Visitors can expect a deeper appreciation for this art form, its roots and how graffiti has changed the world,” says Freidin. “It’s important for the history of this movement to be documented and shared so that the world knows that there is more to the graffiti world than Keith Haring and Basquiat.”
Freidin says the must-see highlights are: the site specific murals by Ghost, Giz, Defer and JonOne; the Wynwood mural by Slick, who became a defining force in the West Coast’s contribution to graffiti; and the 80s room featuring works by Rammellzee, Dondi White, Lady Pink and Blade.
Peruse the gift shop for limited-edition artist collaborations and a collection of toys, apparel, books, prints, accessories and specialty items developed for the museum. You’ll also find gems like limited edition resin spray cans by Stash 2 (another OG in the graffiti scene) and umbrellas by Miami’s Ahol Sniffs Glue. Something else unique: stop by the denim bar to customize a new jean jacket with pins and patches.
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Plan Your Visit
Throughout the year, the museum hosts a series of public programs, including monthly events like print signings, artist guided tours, film screenings, painting demos, limited edition product launches, and a series of art talks from featured artists. Admission tickets are $16 plus fees. Children 13 and under are free. Insider’s tip: purchase tickets in advance on their website to avoid long lines and potential sell outs. Open from 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. every day except Tuesdays. 299 NW 25th Street, Miami