Competitions naturally intrigue people. Art, unbeknownst to many, keeps society alive, and everyone wants to be the “best” at what they do. Combining art and competition has led to recent popular entertainment. It’s evident in reality-television shows that present contenders battling it out to earn the description of the “best.” Apron-clad players clutter kitchens with hopes of creating the “best” dishes on popular shows; fashion designers craft elaborate pieces from scratch in attempts to be a top designer.
Recently, “Street Art Throwdown” on the Oxygen channel is capitalizing on the growing graffiti art movement, exhibiting paint-spraying contenders live on the streets. Coincidentally, a local event is combing competition with live painting, similarly drawing on the latest street art trend in Miami: business owners commissioning artists to paint murals on their buildings.
On Friday March 6, 2015, Wall Brawl Miami will bring the “best” local street artists together to compete live while guests will decide the winner through popular vote.
Yet, as in any competition, the “best” is an elusive concept; all participants are in some way winners and taste, especially in the realm of art, is always subjective. Competing artists will include HecOne Love, Skott Marsi, Bruno Vago, Furious (DAM Crew), KEDS (DAM Crew), Monique Lassooij, Claudia La Bianca, TeePop, NateD, Wilson, Jorge-Miguel Rodriguez, Ill Surge, GG, Atomik, Ivan Roque, Registered Artist, Aquarela Allyson Sabol, Nicole Salgar, Rigo Leon, Kazilla, and Trek 6.
Wall Brawl Miami is brought to you by the partnership of Nick Betancourt, who does public relations for various luxury brands, and Michael Rosen, who has been in the art world for many years, helping artists get their work’s licensed.
As for the selection of Friday evening’s artists, event organizer Betancourt wrote: “Our selection process was more of a "who is recognizable in Wynwood. The only place on earth that businesses and graffiti artists work together is here. It’s a very rare symbiosis, but it is actually working and people are coming from all over the world to check it out. You can actually expect to see it grow and develop into a stop on any art enthusiast’s destination list.”
Betancourt is right; Wynwood has become a phenomenon. The more established artists sell their pieces for $15,000 to $20,000. But, for Wall Brawl Miami, artists are not privately selling their creations; they are donating their time and artwork to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities. Guests will be given a chip to vote on their favorite piece, access to an open bar by Bombay Sapphire/Zacapa Rum, and lite bites by Morgan’s Restaurant. They will also get the chance to acquire valuable pieces through a live charity auction that will start at $1. Along with live painting by the artists, there will also be music.
Wall Brawl Miami will take place March 6, 2015 from 7 p.m.-10 p.m. at The Annex located at 44 N.E. 29 St., in Wynwood. Space is limited. Admission is $40. Purchase tickets at WallBrawlMiami and don’t forget to share your experience on social media.
#WallBrawlMiami @WallBrawlMiami
Annex
44 NE 29th St
Miami, FL 33137
