Artwork by Skeme 39,3 x 61 cm 5 color screen print on 250 gsm Coventry Rag Edition of 30, hand-numbered and signed by the artist 2022
John Cecil Dash, known in the graffiti world as Skeme, is a pioneering artist from Harlem, New York, born on November 28, 1964.He began his graffiti career in 1979 at the age of 15, quickly gaining recognition for his distinctive handstyles and lettering techniques.Skeme became renowned for "bombing" the New York City subway system, painting on numerous lines including the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, A, CC, D, E, F, M, and J, achieving the status of "All City"—a term denoting widespread presence across the city's transit lines.
In 1982, Skeme and his mother were featured in the influential documentary Style Wars, which highlighted graffiti and B-boying as integral elements of hip-hop culture.This exposure brought Skeme national attention.However, following the documentary, his mother encouraged him to pursue a different path, leading him to enlist in the U.S. Army.He completed his final graffiti piece the night before departing for basic training.
After serving 28 years in the military, Skeme retired in 2010 and returned to the art scene.He resumed painting, often collaborating with fellow artists and participating in exhibitions.His work has been showcased internationally, including at Galleria Varsi in Italy and the Museum of the City of New York.Skeme continues to be celebrated for his contributions to graffiti art and hip-hop culture.
