In 2005, Mark Ecko tried to hold a block party specifically surrounding the urban artwork of graffiti. Although the city gave permission to hold this public party they then rescinded their permission when some local politicians objected to the theme matter. Ecko wound up going to court to protect his First Amendment rights, and won with ease. Some of New York’s oldest and finest painters were invited to showcase their skills on replicas of New York’s subways from a bygone era. No actual subway cars were harmed during the party. You can view some of the press coverage hereEcko%20Party.htmlshapeimage_1_link_0
 
Along with graffiti legend Cycle, the PinkSmith car was in response to the abuse of power by the authorities.
Back to Home Page Our friend, Old Schooler Sach, took the next few photos.
Replicas of older model subway cars were crafted by Metal Man Ed and set up to allow the artists to paint freely. You can view some more of his handicraft at metalmaned.comhttp://www.metalmaned.com/shapeimage_7_link_0
It quickly got crowded and painting got a little hard with all the questions and photographers. Hard at work painting. The afternoon sun gave Venus a stained glass look.