International Graffiti Times #1

NYC: David Schmidlapp, 1984. 

Incredibly scarce copy of the International Graffiti Times, Vol 1. The I.G Times was started in the 80s by artist, photographer and journalist, David Schmidlapp, under the pseudonym ‘Yanqui Junkie’,  and is the first-ever newspaper devoted to Street Art.

Originally intended as a satirical take on the art market’s appropriation of graffiti, the magazine soon became a more serious publication and a vital platform for graffiti artists. Vol. 1 features an interview with Revolt, who was an original member of the New York crew ‘Rolling Thunder Writers’ and one of the artists responsible for the ‘Wild Style’ mural that was the the cover of the film of the same name. Only in print for a decade (1984-1994), copies of the I.G Times are incredibly scarce, and as far as we can tell the only other place to have an original copy of its maiden issue is the archive of Cornell university; Schmidlapp’s own copy which he donated. This publication stands out as a masterpiece for the depth of its graphic design, content, and form, and serves as a crucial testament and champion of the essence of Street Art.

Very good condition

420x594mm (unfolded)