April 22, 2010

Henry Chalfant shot the photographs for what became one of the most comprehensive and popular books on graffiti. First published in 1984, Subway Art was a montage of photography capturing the graffiti art that covered the subway trains of New York City for well over a decade beginning in the 1970s.  The Westphal College will celebrate and explore graffiti art and hip-hop style when we host Henry Chalfant and graffiti artist BLADE on Thursday, April 22nd at 7 PM in the Bossone Auditorium (3128 Market St).

We’ll begin with the screening of Chalfant’s 1983 film Style Wars which he co-directed with Tony Silver.  This documentary follows young graffiti writers of the 1970s and 1980s as they stamp their creations in various urban settings. The film also documents then mayor Ed Koch and the Metropolitan Transit Authorities efforts to curb graffiti.  Following the screening, Chalfant and BLADE will provide first hand stories and take audience questions on this important and controversial artistic form. 

The evening will conclude with a book signing by all three guests in the lobby of Bossone.  The 25th Anniversary edition of Subway Art will be available for purchase at the event. This event is sponsored by the Film & Video Program, the Photography Program, the Office of Equality and Diversity, the Office of Multicultural Education and Outreach, The Campus Activity Board, The Philadelphia Photo Arts Center and the Westphal College of Media Arts and Design.  

Event Facts:
What: Film Screening of Style Wars and Q&A
Where: Bossone’s Mitchell Auditorium, 3128 Market St.
When: Thursday, April 22; 7:00 PM
Cost: FREE