A 19 year old CEO of a Lamborghini dealership wanted to attract new
customers to their place of business in Miami and the idea of The
Sharpie Lamborghini was born. 1,000 man-hours was put into
painting the vehicle by hand with Sharpie pens. Miami graffiti artist Jona Cerwinske
is known to have painted works for many a big name in the glitz and
glamor world. Tagged mobile performance art the vehicle is said to be
worth $240,000 though its amassed much more in the publicity department
for the dealership and considered a big success.
If Miami isn't a city normally associated with graffiti, this vibrant and exquisitely photographed collection of works will make readers think again. Over two hundred images reflect Miami's hugely diverse culture with their eye-popping colors, Art Deco flourishes, depictions of palm trees, beaches, marine life, and local iconic figures. Here, a surprising and dangerous underside to the area is also captured. Extensive coverage of abandoned buildings nicknamed Penits,A" de facto museums where entire crews practice their styles, and on-the-outs writers occasionally end up living, proves there is more to the city than South Beach's glitz and glam. Dozens of close-up shots reveal gorgeous, intricate detail, and in-process shots illustrate the technique of turning blank walls, buses, billboards, and other public canvases into stunning masterpieces. Quotes from the city's leading graffiti artists including Crome, Quake, and Siner lend further local perspective to this increasingly popular and universal urban art form.
The Authors
JAMES and KARLA MURRAY are professional photographers and authors. Their books include Broken Windows, Burning New York and Store Front: The Disappearing Face of New York. They live and work in Florida and New York, where their photos have been exhibited at the Brooklyn Historical Society and the New-York Historical Society
