Proclaimed by his former partner Keith Haring as the “Graffiti King of the Lower East Side,” Angel Ortiz aka LA2 is increasingly gaining the admiration and acclaim that he deserves. A self-taught artist, he has fashioned a distinct aesthetic that has evolved into a stylishly striking synthesis of graffiti, pop art and fine art.
Ranging in tones from black, white and gray to bright, bold hues, Angel’s new works on exhibit in “Ode 2 NYC” at Chase Contemporary vary from the seemingly simple to the remarkably intricate. Exuding a magical energy, together they are a glowing testament to LA2’s singular intuitive skills, as well as the perfect pean to NYC.
Featured below are several more images captured from the exhibit:
“Shazbot,” 2023, Acrylic and marker on canvas
“Rainbow Swirl,” 2023, Acrylic and marker on canvas
“Tiffany,” 2023, Acrylic and marker on canvas
“Subway,” 2023, Acrylic and marker on canvas
“DJ LES, 2023, Acrylic and marker on canvas
Exhibition curator and gallery co-owner and director Christopher Pusey with “Silver on Blue,” 2022, Acrylic and silver marker on canvas
“Ode 2 NYC” can be viewed through June 18 at Chase Contemporary, 413 West Broadway in Soho: Monday and Tuesday, 10 AM–6 PM; Wednesday and Thursday, 10 AM–7 PM; Friday and Saturday, 10 AM–8 PM and Sunday, 11 AM–7 PM.
Photos and post by Lois Stavsky and City-as-School intern Antonio Gomez