"BOX! Classic Hip-Hop Portraits"

The solo Art Show of Andrew J. Katz

With DJ Oso Fresh on the Turntables and Special Appearance by Master Gee from the SugarHill Gang

Opening Reception September 22nd at 7pm

For as many years as I can remember I’ve been visually amazed and inspired by my surroundings. After moving to Maryland’s eastern shore in 2000, I began exploring the environment and imagery of the region. I attempted to capture the memory snapshots we all collect when investigating a new place. We want to remember our experience, and when it’s special, we want to share those images.

For me, the same idea holds true with music - When I hear a song or, in particular, a good turn of phrase in the lyrics, I want to listen again. I want to share the song with someone, and discuss the meaning, the intent, and the story behind the music. A good musical piece has the same effect on me as exploring a city, a forest, or small town. I want to dig in and learn as much as possible.

A few years ago, I realized a manifestation of the overlap of music, art, and lyricism. It became my plan to bring my fresh compositions to live music shows. There, I would use the art as a ticket for adventure. Emboldened by having a unique reason for approaching the MCs, DJs and creators of my favorite music, I was no longer idle. I overcame my hesitant, cautious nature, and I created an alter-ego. I would confidently stride towards my musical heroes and ask them to collaborate. Each of these compositions are evidence of those brief encounters, and with them come rich, exciting tales of derring-do.

These compositions are my tribute to the light, the shadows, the photography, the artists, the sounds, the beats, the clever poems, and the intangible feelings that all blow my hair back.

The portrait boxes are each new interpretations of the musical artists, their lyrics, and the classic and vintage nature of their place in the genre of Hip-Hop.

I’m extraordinarily happy to share these experiences with you.

I hope you’ll share some of your favorite stories with me.

Andrew J. Katz Bio:

Andy Katz – AK – Original member of the Bomb Squad of visual artists – mADurgency. Katz is a teacher, visual thinker, illustrator, and BIG hitter in the world of watercolors and Hip-Hop-inspired art. His technical versatility, enthusiasm for personal projects, and passion for all things Hip-Hop provide him an unrelenting creative engine that drives him to construct innovative dynamic compositions and connect with a wide breadth of recording artists. AK continues to use his visual arts acumen as a ticket for adventure, establishing artistic relationships with Hip-Hop icons Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, and yours truly, Mr. Chuck D. While paying the ultimate tribute to his recording artist heroes, Katz has been able to curate mADurgency group exhibitions, manage PublicEnemy.com, and amass a collection of Hip-Hop stories and art that could fill a museum. AK – Andy Katz – He’s got mad hits like he was Rod Carew! Check him out!” - Chuck D - Public Enemy / Member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame