Scribe - Graffiti Artist Interview

February 2009

Interview with Scribe, a graffiti artist based in Kansas City who represents ATT Crew and DF Crew. As well as creating graffiti Scribe is a talented illustrator and artist who, among many other things, has published his own childrens book which is titled "There's An Octopus Under My Bed".

Graffiti piece by Scribe

How old are you?

I'll be turning 34 this April.

Where are you based?

I moved to Kansas City, Missouri some years ago from Boston. I'm happy to represent the Mid-West now, it's where my family originally came from.

How long have you been painting / writing?

I started doing things maybe I shouldn't have been doing, stickers and silly stuff, almost 20 years ago. I would really say though that it has been a solid 15-16 years where it was an active part of my life.

How did you get into graffiti and what made you start painting?

I used to take a bus and train to school everyday in Boston. There was some great stuff on the lines here and there. I was always into art, but I started taking every line there was from one end to another and getting off at stops when I would see something.

Where did you paint your first piece?

If I would say a real piece it would have been in Kansas City, my attempts before that were less than what you would call a piece.

How would you describe your style?

Big Daddy Roth mixed with Disney, mixed with Vaughn Bode then throw in some old school Warner Brothers humor and a little bit of "Groo The Wanderer" by Sergio Aragones… does that make it clear as mud?

Detail of graffiti piece by Scribe

How did you choose the name Scribe?

My Dad is a minister… the name pops up here and there in the Bible. Beyond that through history, they helped record history through pictures and words… some graf does this too!

Do you write under any other names?

Couldn't say.

Do you write with any crews and if so which ones?

ATT Crew - "Abstracting The Typography" and a bunch of other meanings (thanks to East for putting down when I don't abstract the typography… just a character nerd!)
DF Crew - known to some as "Demented Freaks" but there is also a bunch of other meanings. My personal banner for DF would be Donkey Farts.

How did you come to be involved with the Demented Freaks Crew?

Living in Boston I saw a couple things here and there by Emit… when I was in Kansas City I met East ATT and with him were a couple of guys named Gear and Krie, we really started pushing it. Later East moved to Denver and invited me out to paint, he was like "You never guess who's out here!", long story short I got to paint with Emit. Thanks Emit for putting down later… that was one of the things that pushed me to work harder. You can't be in a crew with people like him and Sub and not work your butt off to catch up.

Have you ever worked alongside any of the other artists in the DF Crew?

Several… the last question answers part of that. A couple I need to mention and I feel like I should highlight would be Sub for one… don't get much better than that! We did a wall together with just characters and it was one of those things that helped flip a switch. There are not a ton of character dudes that hang around to stay in this scene for a long time… too bad he is in New York. The other would be Rapes… crazy name, but one of the best friends I have ever had to date and when we get together you can usually do the most stupid things but they seem to come out really cool! That's what I like about DF, personally I think they are "hard" through their skills but the subject matter usually doesn't reflect what it means to be "hard"… if that makes any sense?

We are just a bunch of "Idiots On Parade".

Graffiti piece by Scribe and Rapes (DF Crew / ATT Crew)

What are your feelings about the graffiti scenes in Missouri?

Not a whole lot different than most places, just smaller for sure. Same stuff… talent and knuckleheads mixed together… trash talkers and lone dogs who do beautiful work.

Do you often travel abroad for your art and if so then where is the most exciting or interesting place you have painted?

The travel thing has just started to happen a little more often and if I'm lucky it might continue to grow? Last year I had a show in Montreal and also did an event in Mexico City, both places were great. There is not a whole lot of money in Mexico City, if you know what I mean, but the passion for what they love to do was an inspiration and made me feel a little spoiled.

Have you ever done any commercial work and if so what would you say was your most well known piece?

I haven't really travelled over to that side to much, maybe some on a more local level but it wouldn't be worth the mention for international readers. I haven't done any of that Nike or whatever stuff… not that cool I guess? I'm happy with what I get to do.

If you have ever done any commercial work have you ever put any hidden messages in the pieces you have produced for clients?

Just things like crew letters and stuff like that.

What do you see as your greatest achievement to date?

Being in those books was pretty great.

Graffiti piece by Scribe, Vouges, Emit, Jive and Pueblo

You have a book out called "There's An Octopus Under My Bed", what is the concept behind this book and how has it been selling so far?

The book is based on my first son, he carried around a security blanket… in the book he loses it and learns to trust new friends along the way. It is as much about me as it is about him, a little something you notice sometimes if you are lucky enough to become a father. The book has been doing well. It made it into some of the largest chain stores here in the US and my publisher just told me yesterday that they were down to the last box of 24 which I took them!

If your interested I would look around for it. I don't think we are going to do another run of it so we can hopefully create a little value in owning it.

Has graffiti become a full-time career for you now and if so was it a long journey to get to this stage?

Graffiti, no… art in general, yes. I don't think you should rely too much on graffiti as a career unless you're maybe an OG from early graffiti history. Outside of that, if the world decides again to not have any interest then you have to be careful you don't have too much stock invested in one place! Even the old masters did things like paint churches one year then invent weapons and do sculptures the next.

Even the old masters did things like paint churches one year then invent weapons and do sculptures the next.
Scribe

Is there any one point in your career you would class as 'your big break'?

It has been a long and steady road building what I hope is a strong solid foundation.

Darren at Shake It Ink published my book… changed my life and helped fulfill a dream. Thank you!
East and Emit put me in ATT and DF which helped mold my style. Thank you!
The guys at Cardboard Spaceship are putting out a figure of my signature rhino character named "Rumpus" later this year… super limited and beautiful. Thank you!
Carl Palermo at Children's Mercy Hospital hired me years ago as a maintenance painter but said it wouldn't take long for that to change and he was right, it didn't long for things to change. Four locations at the hospital now have my work all over them so I draw, paint and create for a living. Thanks to him as well!

These are just four things over the years, don't know if they are big breaks? But they helped get me to whatever point people might see me at.

Graffiti piece by Scribe

Detail of graffiti piece by Scribe

What do you see as your greatest achievement to date?

My marriage to my talented wife Alisa and our two sons, Elijah and Jonah… nothing more.

You have had your work displayed in many galleries, is there any one exhibition that stands out from all the rest?

I went to Santa Cruz, California last year and did a show at Cardboard Spaceship. It wasn't the most well known, high end place but it had that charm you love and they always did what they said they were going to do and followed through on everything. I really respect that, it was refreshing in a game where galleries sometimes over hype you to get you there and don't deliver, we sold well and had a great time.

I don't like it when art students start using graffiti as a tool to specifically get into galleries because there is a focus on graffiti at the moment but then they dump it like an old girlfriend…
Scribe

What are your thoughts on graffiti being just a likely to be found in a gallery as on the streets these days?

It has given me the platform to get into galleries because people saw my stuff out in the street… I have other dreams other than just graffiti and shows were part of that. I stay true to what helped mold me into the person I am so it shows in my work and how I deliver it. I try not to sell it as street art, but the media does that if you like it or not, at the same time I don't want to hide my past and current influences. I don't like it when art students start using graffiti as a tool to specifically get into galleries because there is a focus on graffiti at the moment but then they dump it like an old girlfriend, it just shows that they used it as a marketing tool and not as something they just love to do.

There seems to have been a sudden surge of interest in graffiti and street art recently, why do you think this is?

A combination of trends and artists you just can't help but notice if they did graffiti or not, I guess just another wave of people pushing the boundaries and rules of what graffiti is. The world will get into something else later but I hope there will always be an interest, there is a good pool of talent out there and I am happy to see people I know and respect make a living with it… just as long as their motives are in line.

Detail of graffiti piece by Scribe showing his trademark character called "Rumpus"

There is a very fine line between those who see graffiti as art and those who see it as vandalism, what are your views on this?

I don't really care about that subject much, I don't think it will ever go away and trying to state a case towards one side or another has never established an answer. There's a lot of art in galleries that can fall into the same discussion. The over use of "Relative Truth" nowadays, where you are not allowed absolutes, will continue that argument forever.

Do you prefer doing legal or illegal pieces?

I've enjoyed both for different reasons.

Have you ever 'felt the long arm of the law' because of your art?

Yes, a couple of times, brought a lot of hardships into my life for a while and lost some things dear to me. That is the nature of the beast and there is no one to blame.

Do you try to keep your identity anonymous where possible?

Sometimes yes, but that is hard with the net nowadays.

Do you see yourself as an artist, an illustrator or a graffiti writer?

All of the above, I hope each thing I do has an effect on the other.

Which other artists work do you admire?

Jason Brunson - www.thefrenchpig.com
Dalek
Barry Mcgee
Os Gemeos
The seven old men from Disney and Disney himself

I also like Fredrick Remington when he did his nocturnal stuff and Thomas Hart Benton… Midwesterners baby!

Really the list goes on and on and I apologize if there are friends I left out as well.

Which other graffiti artists would you most like to work with if given the chance?

That is a long list too! I painted with Os Gemeos several years ago in Cincinnati as part of the Beautiful Losers travelling show launch, but I wish I had a better chance to do something more as I like their approach of mediums and story telling. Crayola in California would be a cool one to work with too.

What is your preferred medium for making marks with?

Whatever is around and isn't dried up!

What is your colour of choice?

I really love earthy apple greens… there is always a different name for it depending on the brand.

What is your favourite surface to paint on?

New Cinder Block walls.

Do you have a favourite piece of all time?

I was really happy with the "Desert Feud" wall I worked on with the DF Crew… done well, in my opinion, and stupid as all get out.

"Desert Feud" wall by the DF Crew

What kind of music are you into?

I listen to a lot of jazz, positive hip-hop (which can be hard to find), rare groove and stuff like that.

What is the last album you bought?

Actually I just went on iTunes the other day and bought "Closer" by TY - from over in your neck of the woods I think? Had it and lost the CD. I can relate to what he talks about.

What are you working on currently and what plans do you have for the future?

I have some toy stuff coming out this year and it has been fun to see my work in 3D… not much money in it but really love doing it. I have some shows this year with some galleries I really respect and was happy to be asked, I feel like I took a step up when they contacted me… the info will be on my site later. Also just paint some walls and enjoy the weather and friends.

Anything else you would like to add?

Thanks for taking the time to notice me from so far away! Ummmm… hope it wasn't too boring?

Just tired of interviews where people try to say overly wacky things to sell themselves more… "look at me, I'm rebellious and a loon"… "Buy my stuff now"! LOL! Or "I'm as hard as hard can be and keeping it real"… Whatever!

Enjoy what you do regardless of what level you are on… if it becomes something more and it fits into what your dreams are for yourself, then count yourself lucky as there are a lot of talented people that never get noticed! Sorry for my writing skills, I was drawing in my lack luster English classes of the Boston Public School system!

Later, Scribe (ATT Crew / DF Crew)

For further information about Scribe please visit:: Scribe Profile; Scribe Website; Scribe Blog

Comments

A God amungst men... a true friend & champion of the spraycan! Scribe IS unstoppable!

Posted by East on Sunday, 15th February 2009 at 15:47:30

I wish you could see how he has transformed the institutionally bland walls of Children's Mercy Hospital. Amazing! He does have a politically correct side to him (whatever that means) that is just as exciting & stimulating as any street piece. The kids & parents love his work. Imagine a child, scared of doctors & needles, walking in & becoming enthralled with the colors & figures that catch their eyes. The cartoon fanticies relieve their fears. It takes them to a place that they would really rather be at the moment. The kids smile, point, & dig their heals in as the parents are busy worring, reading signs & thinking of appointment times. They both stop to take it all in. They have been introduced to art. They are stimulated to see beauty. Their imagination soars high above any diagnosis. Scribe provides the best healing therapy. When Disney artist remodeled a cancer ward of a local children's hospital a few years ago, it was recorded that the blood level counts rose dramatically across the board with all the patients. This was accredited to the stimulating effect of the atrwork. Scribe is an amazing asset to the art world & to the health of our sick children! The guy uses his depth & talent to connect with people on every level!

Posted by Shazzam Suydam on Monday, 16th February 2009 at 15:54:10

Congrats Scribe. You are certianly an interesting interview to read.

Posted by gaze on Monday, 16th February 2009 at 16:36:04

Word - great interview Scribe. I am still hoping we get a chance to paint together again. Maybe one of these days when i decide to roll out to your area.

stay up and stay positive!

Posted by Galo Make Canote on Monday, 16th February 2009 at 17:50:40

Great job! Shouts to Gear (Quisp - TPA)

Posted by The Public Animals - Street Level Nine on Monday, 16th February 2009 at 17:59:29

Good stuff Doctor SCRIBElington.

Ewok wuz heer.

Derilict Fornicator.

From the dirty apple.

Posted by Mysery Walk on Monday, 16th February 2009 at 18:25:46

Great interview scribe. Thanks for making DF look good...

Posted by emit on Monday, 16th February 2009 at 18:39:34

next time i'm throwing YOU in the pool...

Posted by jive proudfoot on Tuesday, 17th February 2009 at 02:34:57

great interview...cant wait to get the Rumpus toy.

everything Scribe does is a masterpiece

Posted by derek on Tuesday, 17th February 2009 at 07:29:29

Wow was I happy to read this! Scribes work has amazed and influenced me for as long as I can remember.

I will get that tattoo one day.

Posted by MINES on Tuesday, 17th February 2009 at 14:45:37

ills

Posted by cs on Tuesday, 17th February 2009 at 21:06:37

this guy ant no WRITER..he paints these little cute bullshit....he talks about people in artschool using graffiti as a tool? dude your doing the same thing..people can do what they want..hop off.you just mad you ant seeing that money.......just like these old ass niggas to run they mouth..dont get mad us young bucks taken your money..fuck these old ass niggaz..come to nyc its a wrap for you bitch....any wall you do will be gone under 7 hours.

Posted by ppt on Tuesday, 17th February 2009 at 21:38:33

Never finished art school, never saw graf as a means to art galleries when I started and paid a price for loving graffiti, but no regrets. Galleries came to me, I didn't search them out.

I was talking about people who had no interest in graffiti until they saw a means to get into galleries faster, not people who are in the culture, paid dues and it was an honest part of their life.

No one is taking my money, don't have any to take.

You stress to much.

Thanks to all the others for your comments.

Posted by scribe on Tuesday, 17th February 2009 at 22:19:08

paid there dues? thats called a sell-out...graffiti belongs in the street right?..i mean real graffiti.. i know some OG's make money off it but there are alot of hypocrites in this industry..only ones that can profit are these OG fucks....they dont let the young cats shine..and i respect that bcos they are history and means they should shine more IN GALLaries etc.....but to go an say certain dudes cant shine bcos he wasnet hittin the trains, street etc is bull shit...when you come into the industry or 'ART' industry that shit do apply....dont matter..if you paint graffiti or cartoons its' ''ART''dont bring all that in with your comments.....some of your comments you act very arrogant also like you a real bomber or some shit..but then act like im not in the graffiti feild or do that..almost every person in this art shit hit a wall at one time but moved on to make money and take responsibility with they life..what real person over the age of 24 still bombs is a fucking loser..grow up....just like you...you grew up and profit off it scince you got a family its irresponsible to do so right?..you just have good can skills..not a bomber an aresol artist....no such thing as an graffiti "artist".....dont get hype bcos you did some shit with ewok..that nigga and shit on the streets..nigga dont come in brooklyn no more..the real brooklyn.... ZECK*S +*BODYSVILLE*

Posted by ZECK*S NYC BODYSVILLE! on Wednesday, 18th February 2009 at 01:03:52

scribes works is dope....but hes not a street bomber!..hes does his thing...

when you get into this art game if you do graffiti on canvas or legal wall should not matter if you hit wall illegally on the street sicnce its considered ART..paying dues doesent have much to do with it either.scince its art...if you complain your a hater...

only ones that take pain to that are the real writers or og writers as they fell it should stay on the street or they feel like 'hey ima a real writer thats my money i could do that'...is the only reason they bitch at people that have no street creed....

but alot of older writers actually make a living off graffiti..if they dont they lie..cope...seen..futura...tats cru etc.. so they cant complain or be hypocrites about it...if not for graffti half these dudes would be losers and have no life..they are a bunch of bumbs..lol

Posted by Travis on Wednesday, 18th February 2009 at 01:18:55

fair enough...see your point...wasn't trying to come off like an authority...don't see why other names and crews need to be mentioned when making a point towards me.

Posted by scribe on Wednesday, 18th February 2009 at 02:43:16

Scribe, hold up your head high man... your work is dope and you style is fresh! I'm pretty sure that some people come over as haters because they lack the skills that others have and so in turn the run other artists down make up for it!

To say that Scribe is not a graffiti artist because he does characters and doesn't go bombing is just plain stupid. If all graffiti artists just went bombing and tagging and there was no variety then scene would be pretty dull wouldn't it? Surely one of the good things about graffiti is that when is comes to styles there really are no rules... hell, if you think about it then the whole scene is built around breaking the rules!!

Also, what's wrong with a graf artist making money from doing graf? Hell, I'm sure every man on the street would jump an the opportunity to make money from what they like doing so why not graffers when they get the chance?!?

Posted by The Man On The Street on Wednesday, 18th February 2009 at 10:01:52

Scribe rules my life!

Posted by The Beard on Wednesday, 18th February 2009 at 17:14:15

Nice interview Don - your a true scholar and a gentleman. The few times I have had the extreme honor of meeting and hosting - Scribe, and Rapes, and another DF group show - Don and Jason were humble, polite, and all heart. I have huge respect for the work they do, and their efficiency, and technique are unmatchable ! Cant wait to see the Rumpus resins, and be sure to let me know if we can get a few at the shop, either way, will definitely be picking one up personally!

Never mind the haters, that's whats so dope about your work, it can be appreciated by the most seasoned writer, to the anti-vandal ... the 10 month old to the 100 year old, and all those in between. Keep up the good fight, and never lose your drive and energy, like I said a true gentleman, and a great dad to boot!

Plastic Chapel's door is always open to you, and we hope you will come back again sometime, our walls are waiting, and would love to get Alisa's work too. All the best, keep us posted on Rumpus, and shows.

Posted by Plastic Chapel - Dave on Thursday, 19th February 2009 at 02:31:53

"The Man On The Street" you sound like a retard!...

(you wrote) "If all graffiti artists just went bombing and tagging and there was no variety then scene would be pretty dull wouldn't it"?)

your a punk..that is what graffiti is dick..that is whole style is up..who do you think this shit get out..people trade paper? stupid....your what they call a poser or blackbook artist..that shit is not graffiti learn your shit...watch "state your name" or any graff video and get schooled you prick..and you dont know shit about real graffiti ,its street....and belongs in the street...where it came from....the shit your talking about is legal art..and has nothing to do with a writer..that is what he is, not graffiti artist? he's a legal eagle...and im not hating, i could give a crap what he does its his money his life, but he wont GET love from real writers... ...please dont come running your mouth as if you know about graffiti....he will get no love from a real writer, that where im comming from for what he does....his skill are amazing but just that....why you think cope gets no luv on the street? ewok is going down that same road..they make paper off , power to them..but they lose creed.

Posted by Travis on Friday, 20th February 2009 at 14:15:15

and to answer the question why cant they make money off of graff....they can,but dont say im a writer (not talking about scribe)......dont go doing shit on legal walls or in your backyard and say your a king..your just have good can control or technique if you have the skills as scribe....i mean some street artist have both..but yoiu wont see them in an art gallery sellin art for a culture thats true to the streets? get it?....that one of the thing, you fags think graffiti is 'kool' but dont now your shit, yours history...

now i know what scibe means when he say art shcool students using graffiti as a tool to get into the game..you same fags go outside do couple tags around your city to 'GET' famous and then try to sell your shit and get busted by the man..ita funny how your a poser

Posted by travis on Friday, 20th February 2009 at 14:29:41

I know my history fairly well, but by any means claim to know it all. I learn what I can and had some good teachers in my opinion.

I don't see one place in the article where I tried to lay claim to doing anything like what cats are doing on the streets. I have more respect than given credit for. I know my place since my life went from illegal to legal over time and never sell myself as being some hard core bomber....as an old friend said I should say...."I'm retired"

The comment about kids using it as a stunt for faster fame....I won't back down from that,

sorry I won't-

When I started writing I never thought about galleries, got busted and dealt with stuff a couple time, later got into legal walls but never called myself a king...I know what that means and I'm not going to disrespect that history for sure.

Later a gallery approached me and I never thought that was possible, so over time my priorities changed because legal or not pushing myself was important. My family now is more important than what ever your beliefs are.

Like I said in the article, I don't go out of my way to be seen as a writer, but the press has a way of doing that when you have a show or something wether you like it or not, but I'm also not going to be ashamed of what help make me and try to hide my past history.

I've had 16 years of getting yelled at when it was illegal or legal from all sides. It doesn't bother me anymore, people have dissed walls, offered to beat me up, but doing all those things don't make you right, just means you are frustrated if you ask me.

I know friends that still bomb hard and legal eagles and they are all great friends.

My thing is that if you choose to do illegal for the rest of your life and stick to your convictions by never stepping foot in a gallery, then I would have a tremendous amount of respect for your convictions but it doesn't make you more righteous than the next if your goals in life are different.

That being said since I tried my best to explain to progression I went through and that it wasn't part of some scheme and marketing plan from the beginning to make money, that was the point I was making about SOME of the new school kids....their desire was for a different fame from the beginning.

If you think that was my goal from the beginning, then your looking for something that wasn't there you chump ( this is not directed to Travis and his comments. I understand where he is coming from but think it best to leave other peoples names out of this like Ewok and Cope. )

On another note, I failed to mention someone in this article who did have an influence in my life in illegal and legal...color theory when i didn't get to that in my sort life of school, laying out composition and just all around pushing my boundries...

We had some beef in the past and it was wrong for him to leave me out because that is a revision of my history based off of anger.

Thanks Quisp ATT/TPA.

Posted by scribe on Sunday, 22nd February 2009 at 21:01:50

I mean it was wrong for ME to leave HIM out...all that other garbage messed me up.

Posted by scribe on Monday, 23rd February 2009 at 12:26:33

Hey Travis how would you know whether we are legal eagles or not.Scribe may have mentioned he was,but don't assume that everybody that does legals is a legal eagle.Do you think were dumb enough to mention that in an article? If so, you should watch what you say in articles because it could come back to bite you in the ass at a later time...The police read the articles to!

Posted by Quisp one on Monday, 23rd February 2009 at 15:02:07

To whom it concerns - We are interested in paying someone to help us create a logo for our new company. It would involve a dripping light bulb and the word iBRIGHT. If anyone is interested please email katz.bryce@gmail.com Thanks for your time. Your work is amazing.

b katz.

Posted by B. KATZ on Tuesday, 24th February 2009 at 20:26:36

You are the man scribe! All your work is amazing.Respect

Posted by Rokone sik on Friday, 27th February 2009 at 23:25:18

quisp one? the police?.. i should be scared why? or even care.?..let them read the article or my commets..i could give not ne but two shits!.. My name is travis somthean...i run a gallery small gallery here in New york!....SMALL gallery BUT STILL!...on top of that i write Tra32 and you need alot more than here say to get somthing on someone..please you should know that..

as for scribe..cardboardspaceship isnt some real big name galley that racks in 100,000.000 in art monthly.....anyone with skills could get a deal with any gallery, if you have somthing people are into to....they contact you so they can make a profit..if i know an artist will get money in i will contact them aswell..give them a chance if the dont have the finances aswell....so dont get hype up bcos of that....

your a grown man..there are kids these days that are around 20-25 years old or younger that are on the same skill level as you....and you have alot of years 20+ under your belt or practice and skill.. and they only have 5 or 6 years of skill....the art thing isnt like a couple years ago..anyone with a taste that someone is into can land a deal...is not all about being a big name or who you were...comon..some of these kings dont even bank..and these 20 to 25 year old nobodys with a crazy style make more money..

Posted by travis on Monday, 2nd March 2009 at 02:08:23

also scribe you think your some big shit on kidrobot because one dude made a crappy thread about you and you think your god and got hype..

run your mouth at alot of the younger artist/people on there also...please dude your a grown man.....dont hate on the younger fellas...its and art forum...

you didnt go to graffiti affiliated websites beacuase you know they will shoot you down for what you do..but come on to a place that isnt about that and think your better than some....

i lost all respect for you because of that...dont hate on the younger dudes..its not about 'big' names..is about what people like..get over it brother..your art is for kids..not fine art..will die down after or so...why do you think so many are sellin your customs from past show..too fund other better artist..just check ebay and the sales places..its all true..one hit wonder

also if people want to use graffiti in there art and dump it that can..what are you gonna do? not like theM...wow what a loss..scribe doesnt like me.boohoo...if they dont dont graffiti but use it as a form of art they can aswell..its all art..you have no say in it..UNDERSTAND!...so stop it..your gonna run into alot of people during your art thing..all i say dont come to nyc homie..

Posted by travis on Monday, 2nd March 2009 at 02:23:08

Travis, why are you hatin' on Scribe so much?? The way you are going on is like Scribe has said "I'm the greatest graffiti artist to have ever lived and fuck everyone else" and reading this interview that is clearly not the case!

Scribe has skills and has his own styles but just because they may be different to yours that is no reason to start running him down.

Also the whole legal vs illegal thing ... So what if a writer only chooses to paint legal spots then I can't see an issue, that is a personal preference and perhaps they have reasons for doing so which others don't know. Does it make them any less of a graffiti artist than the ones who paint illegally? I know they aren't taking the risks but surely if they have the skills then that is what matters? Surely you would rather see a legal spot with some really dope piece which you can appreciate rather than a plain grey wall of nothing?

This whole money thing... Travis to quote you in earlier posts...

"and to answer the question why cant they make money off of graff....they can,but dont say im a writer"

"i mean some street artist have both..but you wont see them in an art gallery sellin art for a culture thats true to the streets? get it?"

you say these things and also claim to write Tra32 yet you also say you own a fucking gallery so what does that make you? A hypocrite! Certainly not a writer that is true to the streets! Your choice of words dude, not mine!!

I've had a look at the Kid Robot forum too and I can't see what you are talking about again! Where does Scribe go 'running his mouth' on there? As far as I can see people are looking forward to his work.

Also see: http://forums.kidrobot.com/viewtopic.php?t=129102&sid=d705cee0dd3a77e0d240c40589a00ec5

Posted by Socket1 on Monday, 2nd March 2009 at 09:02:54

1. LISTEN Socket1 that is what i do for a living, i sell peoples are...i dont NOT sell my NAME for money nor my 'writer' or 'GRAFFITI' in such place .....if its a peice its based on my style..not street culture related...

i do not post GRAFFITI ART IN MY GALLERY...understand...you retard....

second....as for the thread you posted above from that kidrobot forum..i dont go on their....that is what im told..and its not from that thread..there are others....once again retard..get your info before you come out talking like a duck.

Posted by travis on Monday, 2nd March 2009 at 16:10:15

Ok, ok... so I am a retard! It's choice when people can't have a civilised argument and just result to name calling!

So I got my facts wrong and you don't sell graffiti art in your gallery (I wasn't really to know when I have no clue which gallery it is you run or work in). Sorry about that but maybe you should check your facts too that because you are basing your whole argument about the Kid Robot thing on what you have been told and not what you have seen!

That aside though, why do you think it is alright for you to sell the art of 'normal' artists and not that of 'graffiti artists'? How come you find it acceptable for 'normal' artist to make money out of their talent but not a graffiti artist??

Posted by Socket1 on Monday, 2nd March 2009 at 20:01:54

Travis,

I don't go on a lot of graf website because these types of arguments get so old when I'm just doing my thing.

As for KR...get over it dude. I count myself lucky to get noticed and fully understand that nothing is forever. I don't have an issue with my stuff on ebay, just how it goes.

The one guy I ever got upset at on KR....count it one, lives in KC and there is a history for why that happened and I have a right to defend myself like you do with your views.

A little worried at how much your following what I am doing since you think I'm such a bad person for what I'm doing. Stop looking and maybe you won't be so angry, next article on me if I ever get asked again...don't read , not hard to do. Next thread in a site...don't look?

Posted by scribe on Tuesday, 3rd March 2009 at 11:11:29

Travis -"if they dont dont graffiti but use it as a form of art they can aswell..its all art..you have no say in it..UNDERSTAND!"

Scribe-( not sure why your saying I shouldn't but others can, my point was about ultimate motive ) I'm confused at where your going with this?

Travis "run your mouth at alot of the younger artist/people on there also...please dude your a grown man.....dont hate on the younger fellas...its and art forum."

Scribe - ( Your blowing one situation out of proportion to try to prove a point and didn't read the props I gave the dude either )

Travis " also scribe you think your some big shit on kidrobot because one dude made a crappy thread about you and you think your god and got hype.."

Scribe - I count my self lucky someone started the thread on me, when I saw it I was honored that someone took the time to notice. I post in there for the folks that enjoy my work for what it is and know that nothing lasts forever. I don't think I am going to blow up because of it. Being a cartoonist it is a good fit for me to be there since so many on that site like animated art. I've seen some of my favorite artists rise and fall into hearing nothing about it. That is a common thread in art history so get your head right if you actually think I think I'm better than anyone else. i wish i had some of the skills as these young kids and openly admit it....duh

Travis -"as for scribe..cardboardspaceship isnt some real big name galley that racks in 100,000.000 in art monthly.....anyone with skills could get a deal with any gallery, if you have somthing people are into to....they contact you so they can make a profit..if i know an artist will get money in i will contact them aswell..give them a chance if the dont have the finances aswell....so dont get hype up bcos of that...."

Scribe - I mentioned them because they were more professional in response to e-mails, payments, and over all hosting of a show than some other spots I have worked with that are bigger and better. But the way they handled themselves as a gallery owner was right on. I'll always give credit to those that treated me well if they are big or small. I won't stop painting walls and canvas work if things die out and I am a one hit wonder....losing what tiny, tiny, tiny little bit of notice I have won't rob me of what I like to do, and your comments won't either. If I never make it to New York, I'm fine with that, If I go there and get dissed then I'll have to live with that too. You can't make everyone happy. As a gallery owner and here conversations about if someones art should be in a gallery or not, I'm sure you can relate to that at least.

I tried to say that i understand both sides of the fence more than you think and respected your views and never trashed anything about the things you said.

Get pissed at me all you want, your coming off just as self righteous about view points on graf and gallery art

as your attacking me for. I'll try to see where your coming from and examine my self for it, no big deal, but your just on a mission to pull something down and it is getting old.

Hit me up though my website and I'll even give you my number if you want to go off on me and state your views and I'll listen....we may never agree but I'm not scared either to have the conversation.

Posted by scribe on Tuesday, 3rd March 2009 at 13:09:54

Credit in life goes to the ones in the arena, not the audience. Once side liners understand that, they'll usually tighten their own boot straps and get it in, and not worry about the next man. If a man is just meant to be a side liner, they will always do so, no matter who or what, all is needed is a soap box to be heard, Scribe, take away the soap box, overstand?

All b.s. aside some of you in here sound pretty silly.........and I'm pretty sure you don't need me to tell you that.

I am Brooklyn, like it or not, 14 yrs of paying my own rent. and the movie isn't over.

Apparently I stopped doin' dirt now? Im actually fine with that concensus because I don't need or want heat like that while Im fryin' bigger fish. The difference is I do it for ME, when I want to do it. People like you do it to impress others, and show how big your dick is.... One day you'll understand.

Scribe is a talented dude, who's been around the block a lot more then the herbs you need to be bickerin' about, head over to Wooster Collective, where a sea of fly by nighters ruin our city everyday and move out a month later.

Don't quit your day jobs fellas.....

EWOKONE 5MH, YKK, KMS,GOD, BTC,IMOK and DF....... The saga continues.

Posted by EWOKONE on Tuesday, 3rd March 2009 at 16:54:25

you say that now ewok..but niggaz like you dont show love to noone...real talk..

you act if you have the bigger dick...comon your brooklyn?..what does that mean?..you might get love from the streets in the graffiti scene but you sound very cocky with that comment...im not the one going into comic con with horse heads and mustache and glasses combo looking shit to protect your identity....if you ant doing dirt why rock that shit...who are you afraid of?...dont wanna end up like KET?

your a ghost to some people..so how can you hold down bk?...niggas around here live in the streets and cant even hold it down..so i dont know what that shit means//

your making money..you dont need to be doing illegal shit to get locked up and pay fines when your doing your art/toy/print thing....so you dont care.. you wanna live big and good right..niggas call that a sellout but you dont care... fuck them right..they dont pay your bills...you dont go home and fuck them..so they dont matter

BUT why is it when niggas that never or ever have done graffiti illegal, but have the skills or can control to...want to make money off of it ya big names niggas hate..take shit etc.....

dont want to bring cope into this but hes another one..look at cope..he was all shit in the new papoose graffiti video.....takin shit about why whack dudes or fake kings dont need to be in videos..real graffiti niggas..

but what if papoose got some aresol artist to do his name etc... ya nigga talk shit and hate...hypocrites?

that why that nigga cope got dicks all over his shit in nyc....

Posted by ZECK*S NYC BODYSVILLE! on Sunday, 8th March 2009 at 07:58:16

scribe, funny you dont visit graffiti forums to sway away from this kind of talk. but you were acting very silly on the forum with that guy from your crew and rambling at the other artist and you looked bad.

you dont like people to ramble crap to you but its ok for you to do to others?...and especially on non graffiti site..an art toy site based off all kinds of artist..not just urban or graffiti artist! you were doing the stuff you hate to see.. *shakes head*

but all jokes aside that kids work look like your work..they eyes..some of the characters flow...not the entire characters (like shark maybe) the eyes, flow etc..to some extent have some similarities...but doesnt every graffiti bubble lettering look the same?..or even wildstyle peice? the same flow..

i mean people out from europe dont look nothing like usa art, but all graffiti from europe has the same flow as europe art..all graffiti from the west has the same flow....all the graffiti from nyc has the same flow.......

you did character suits..so does ewok..so do other non graffiti or urban artist...so are you copyin them aswell? im confused.. but that can be some sort of inspiration right....maybe dude isnt original but you arent ethier then?

everyone has a same feel to somthing so why the hate....

this is the stuff that pisses me off about big name artist..this is what i want for you to understand..im not hating on you just talkin the truth.....

As for ewok...do you brother... i fully understand your saying...but i do agree with the guy above on his comments with the hate from big names to people that are not in the game..i guess you guys will never understand..

Posted by Travis on Sunday, 8th March 2009 at 08:21:58

this is a pointless arguement i have read all this and have checked the kid robot forum ,yes i agree everyone is influenced by others that is the nature of the beast ,however when people rip off others ideas without giving any credit then that is a whole new story ,it seems that scribe and the kid you are talking about have a back history and this seems to have gone on for some years .i don't see scribe hating at all i think he just wanted some credit for a style he did create in kansas city and the other kid just happens to live in kansas city ,seems pretty obvious to me .the talk happened on a non graffiti site because that is where it was started by the younger kid .and you talk about all flows looking the same in graffiti this is not true yes there are certain styles that happens however a whole movement of style of the west coast was created by msk,awr and kids now openly copy what they are are doing and nyc has a mulititude of styles form classic ,fba style, vet style,tkid, etc...to say they all look the same is just wrong .the same with throw ups they are very unique in style and execution yes there are similarity but you can can tell that a person took time to learn a certain style .

and as scribe is far from a big name artist most people don't even know he exists he is know by the people who admire his work ,he doesn't have huge gallery sales ,or a shoe contract he is a talented dude who is trying to provide for his family so why does that bother everyone ,if anyone was offered to make money they would do it ,people have to eat and pay bills ,so what is the problem ?

young and old have talent there is no question and there is always someone who will be better than you and there will always be someone your influence by the main difference is to give credit on who influences you and not act like some ego maniac teenager who invented the whole thing .

and as far as gallery 's representing people, who cares what people you represent if they have talent then they deserve it if the are ripping off ideas and styles to promote themselves as something that they are not then they don't deserve it ,personally i think alot of art is crap nowadays ,banksy became famous now every little gallery wants to sell stencil art ,or now every little gallery is selling vinyl toys why because they want to make money !!!! and that scene is in right now ..when it comes down to it most people are just jealous because it didn't happen for them ,so pick yourself up and move on and get better that is what is takes hard work .

i personally hate forums because this is all that ever happens ,let's move on kids

Posted by steven on Monday, 9th March 2009 at 13:59:15

Travis,

once again your leaving stuff out, you left out my apology to the board members for what went down and some stuff got to a level similiar to graf boards and I made it stop partially for that reason because it was stupid and a mistake for happening. Plenty of members threw in their comments as well so there was more than one guilty party. Sometimes people post comments trying to look OK to others and know that it pokes the other party in a different way. In my opinion he started it and I finished it.

I didn't apologize to the guy you are making reference too....dude is a spoiled jerk who takes what he can from everybody in his life and has never once thanked anyone in his life who helped him on the way. I thank my influences in mine, even when they called me out on some stuff because I was learning along the way if I liked it or not I still respected their opinion and I at least tried to examine myself instead of saying everyone else is doing it therefore it is OK. Until I get an honest apology out of that guy for some stuff he can keep his distance and I'll keep mine and I have even though my opinions differ. go mind your business now, I've explained enough.

I don't care if it is graf, legit art? toy stuff, or whatever.....the motive of using influence to fast track and take from other is wrong in my book especially when it proves over time that they never gave a crap about the person but only were around to get what they could.

There are an abundance of users out there in this world who don't care about anybody but themselves and some of them think they are slick and people don't know.

as for not hating but just speaking the truth, I could say I was just doing the same since you don't know the full extent of the situation. ( I guess you'll never understand to quote you ) You are either a friend of the person your defending since you chant the same mantra to justify stuff or need to get a life and move on and until a ref with ultimate authority comes in ( which will never happen since this is an age old arguement ) and says who is right, then your opinions on originality don't mean much to me. It is about the attempt to try, not to RELY and taking stuff and making excuses for it for a living. If that's what you want to do then fine, but I don't have to think that is ok....just how it goes.

Offer is still open to contact me when ever you want to...I won't back down from a personal debate and am willing to learn. You obviously need this soapbox in the comments section or I would have heard from you.

Thanks steven for your comments above and your perspective. I agree most don't know me, thankyou for that because it is the truth and I work as hard as I can and am lucky when someone sees it and says " hey there something else by scribe, i can tell it is him" There is soooo much talent out there and the world is huge.

There has been waves of folk type street art out there and stencil stuff ( which I like some of it ) and I couldn't get a foot in a single gallery because I wasn't current with what was selling...now there are other trends. Next year I may not even be able to get a local show for all I know and all the toys out there might only be made in solid colors?....that is just how it goes

To be seen and have a fan of your work is a gift.

Thank you very much for your views.

Posted by scribe on Monday, 9th March 2009 at 15:19:21

I Sub-Scribe to Canadian underground hiphop. Thank God. 100. Bless all you crazys.

Posted by CN CONFIDENTIAL.. on Thursday, 19th March 2009 at 07:15:20

ZECK, I'll address you because you seem misled by INTERNET media. Your points are valid, but here's your flaw... For 1, Brooklyn is HUGE as Im sure you're aware, so what I've done or choose to do below radar(currently) may or may not be apparent to you or your eyes, ESPECIALLY if your making judgement based on the internet. How long you've been around is another question, because I've made my rounds over the years in every brough... I'll give you a small bit of insight that I don't tell many people, but honestly I don't think many people read these comments so who cares.... I choose to keep my identity to myself for many personal reasons, firstly the mystique behind graffiti in 2009 is GONE, everyone is out there now is parading around showing their face to get famous.... This is not the reason I started doing graffiti in my youth, I did it because I didn't know who the people where behind the names I saw, this is something I will always keep true to, no matter where my art takes me in life, because my ART is the face I choose to promote. I'm not trying to be a hollywood star here, Im trying to take my ART to the TOP... Secondly, I DO DIRT STILL, whoever told you otherwise is misleading you... Truth is whether you see it or not makes no difference to me, unlike these kids today I don;t run home and post pics on your favorite graff site before the paint is dried to prove to everyone how big their dick is... something you need to consider is the shelf life of writers today and then think about how long I've been around for (1991ish), then question who's methods are more successful. Quiet bluntly (cocky as you say) the entire scene is going about things wrong and people like myself, Ghost, Jick, Yes2, Ryno, Trap, Duel, Sento, Ven, Ja and many others who keep their faces out of the public eye and keep a low profile are able to accomplish much more in the long run. Something for you to think about. Im only going this deep because you don't come off as the typical ignorant type that usually floods these sites and ultimately what keeps me far far away from them.

Something you have to realize is you as a "street bomber" can never fully understand my actions because I choose to live both lives, a succesful artist in the public eye, and a wrter as my personal passion. I enjoy and have ALWAYS enjoyed writing on things and I will continue to do so, because its part of who I am, and no number in my bank account will ever change that, unlike MANY writers gone artists I could rifle off that I despize who used graffiti as a stepping stool and left it in the gutter afterward. You will never see me do that, EVER, where I go, graffiti goes... That something you should respect, Pharrell aint the best Skater in the game, but look what he's done to the culture as a whole. I love graffiti period, no matter how many of you confused youths out there don't understand my actions or plans. I do what I have to do to allow both lives to co-exist. Something you will never understand....

Cope and Papoose, I dont follow your rationality of that, a "real" writer? what is a real writer to you? ask yourself who and what are "real" to you, and then ask yourself if that person or persons could do what was asked of that video shoot, I think you have your answer. Papoose wanted graffiti that looked good, not a bunch of messy tags and fillins. Cmon bro....

EWOK5MH= Brooklyn..... What does that mean? That means I've been writing graffiti in Brooklyn for almost 15 yrs. with no vacations. as well as openly invited into one of Brooklyn's most notrious crews 5MH back in 93. Im responsable for 5mh's 2nd coming in 2000-2002. If you didn't witness that with your own eyes no matter where you live in NYC then this entire debate should stop here and you should go check your facebook or somethin....

Me being coined a "legal" guy is fine, I don't mind this or that title, but the truth is I have done more fillins, str8 letters, tags, tunnels, rooftops in my career then 85% of the people you would probably consider "real" AND then add in that I've done it all globally.. in other countries where the risks are higher and penalties as well. What you don't know about what Ive done is all part of the plan, a plan much greater then local street cred. or needing approval from you for anyone who doesn't know. The truth is there if you look deep enough, in the meantime I'm not handing out freebies. It only makes you that much more excited to see it in person because you didn't believe it was there. If I chose to today, I could put up a flickr account of strictly illegal shit and crush everyones beliefs system about my credentials. But then how would I be able to do what I do, stand out at walls for days at a time in the summer, watching the "boys" drive by me pissed that they can't get me on anything. Do you think I don't know what I'm doing here? Honestly... The potential run in with VS is A LOT greater for me then you. I have to be wise about my actions, I'm not a kid homeboy. I'm an adult with big adult goals.

The reality of all this is simple, and hasn't changed since AOL 1.0.... When people get shine, others get mad. Nothings changed but the names. And this action alone is why people can't end the cycle of trying to impress EACH OTHER, and get up, go out and do something that REALLY makes a difference with their lives. Their more to life then the acceptance of NYC, there's a big ol' world out there kiddo.

Hate it or love it, I'm here, been here, and I'm going to be here. I'm way to determined to not succeed and that alone hurts soo many people's feelings. I may be cocky like you said, but it's a product of dealing with a world of assholes. I'm always cool to people who are cool to me. Come off to me like an asshole, and you have only yourself to be upset with.... that and my success will always be the biggest middle finger on earth.

I've explained pretty clearly my actions I think, so I will leave you with this,

"you say that now ewok..but niggaz like you dont show love to noone...real talk.."

That is by far the funniest thing I've EVER read.... I do more for EVERYONE around me who's not done me dirty then I do for my own self, EVERYONE around me shines...PERIOD, I've gotten people to travel to globe for free, I've gotten people full spreads in magazines, I've given my house keys to people staying in NY on endless occassions to come and go as they please, I've fed people when they couldn't feed themselves, I've been involved in projects where I've brought in people and those projects jump started their own carriers, AND if I do a wall with you, I make sure EVERYONE shines.... I really think your statement is more fitting for someone else. And if you're talkin' about free handouts to people who don't deserve it, you making yourself sound in need of pitty of a free hand out. For that I would say, pick yourself up by your boot straps and make it happen for YOU, and don't worry about the next man. That's the first step to success.

Not even trying to go out on a bad note, because I've addressed you as an equal, but all this graffiti talk and I can't even say I've ever seen or heard of a ZECK(?). I've heard of ZECT because I've seen the work he put in.. Who do you roll with and what part of Bk? This could be why you've never seen my shit. "real talk"

EWOKONE 5 Medina Hooligans

DIABOLICAL FUNK.

and a silly plethora of other crews you respect who I NEVER asked to represent.

Keep the peace fam.... Too much bullshit out there these days as is. Much luck to EVERYONE on their paths of success. Big up SCRIBE, a talented artist who comes from graffiti, love it or hate it. He's one of us, and you should support the movement.

Posted by EWOK 5MH on Monday, 30th March 2009 at 00:39:27

keep the graffiti on the wall and the nose to the grind stone

--------keep it up scribe-----------------------------------------

Posted by jerz one on Thursday, 2nd April 2009 at 20:09:06

also lets get one thing straight graffiti is art it originated as art and fuck anyone who thinks that all graff is is bombing

------word is bond check ur view point travis ,, amen,, do ur thing scibe--------

Posted by jerz one on Thursday, 2nd April 2009 at 20:17:38

-SCIBE.Excellent, & to EWOK-- Well done! I read this piece, and read the comments-I'm blown away by all the crying on here by people I've never seen up, and never will. SCRIBE- You've got mad talent, PERIOD. EWOK-serious talant as well. Both of your work is inspiratoinal. As someone who does lettering & a character-based work on the street, and proffesionally I think much of this is pure jealeousy! I definately want graffiti to be seen in the street, but you can't put restrictions on where graff's gonna go, or what it's gonna do.

-I've got nothing but Love for you guys-and for hardcore bombing- This movement is a beautiful one, I'm just happy to be a practitioner-even if only a small part.

Posted by SEAMO on Friday, 17th April 2009 at 15:27:44

Scribe, just keep doin your thing. Don't even respond to the haters, they obviously have issues. People will always look at our work and either enjoy it or marvel at it, or not like it, but you are doing what you are supposed to do in order to make you satisfied. 1) You are expressing your inner self (lucky you), and 2) you are evoking emotions in others.

Just keep doing what you're doing and leave the time you waste on trying to dialogue here alone. Don't waste your valuable energy on the negatrons....LOL!

Joe

Posted by Joe-188, JOEY TC - The Public Animals, circa 1972 on Tuesday, 23rd June 2009 at 18:03:57

HEY THIS IS SYNDICATE TATTOO IN KANSAS CITY,MO WE ARE RIGHT OFF OF WORNALL ROAD AND HAVE A HUGE WALL THAT FACES WORNALL ROAD WITH A CAR COUNT OF 20K PER DAY!! WE NEED A GREAT ARTIST TO HIT UP THE WALL AND SOON!!! PLEASE COME IN AND TALK TO US OR CALL

SYNDICATE TATTOOS

8045 SUITE A

WORNALL ROAD

KCMO,64114

Posted by SYNDICATE TATTOOS on Monday, 12th October 2009 at 17:06:50

Great stuff man hope to meet up with you sometime in KC!

Posted by SUR5L on Tuesday, 10th November 2009 at 05:35:07

Scribe I have loved looking at your stuff every since I was a kid. Thank you! You are a "KING" in my opinion......

Travis you really put yourself off as being somewhat stupid.... I cant see someone in your condition being successful enough to run their own art gallery. ".that shit is not graffiti learn your shit...watch "state your name" or any graff video and get schooled you prick..and you dont know shit about real graffiti ,its street....and belongs in the street...where it came from" First off its not street if you learned how to do it from a video!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And not go to "nyc" I have always heard you guys are a bunch of hardcore crack addicts "clucks" as you may call it. As far as Im concerned if you guys from "nyc" handle beef like you talk or write I dont think anyone would have a very hard time there. =) (=

Posted by not from the street but love letters on Saturday, 20th February 2010 at 22:37:24