BG183: Master of Urban Canvases
Learn about the legend BG183, as he paints the streets, and leaves his mark on the urban landscape
Tag from BG 183 (2022) by BG 183The Bronx County Historical Society
BG183, a member of TATS CRU
BG183 is known for his vibrant and colorful street art, particularly his intricate lettering and characters. BG183 is a member of the Bronx-based graffiti crew called TATS CRU, which has gained international recognition especially for their mural work.
Oral History with BG 183 (Bronx Aerosol Arts Documentary Project) (2022-03-01) by BG 183 (narrator), Boone, Kurt (interviewer), and Payne, Steven (interviewer)The Bronx County Historical Society
The early life of BG183
BG's story reveals his father's baseball legacy and his own New York experiences growing up in the 1970s and 1980s. Amidst the fire epidemic of the South Bronx, BG found creativity, belonging, and curiosity.
Oral History with BG 183 (Bronx Aerosol Arts Documentary Project) (2022-03-01) by BG 183 (narrator), Boone, Kurt (interviewer), and Payne, Steven (interviewer)The Bronx County Historical Society
A journey into hip hop
BG183's hip hop journey unfolds as his gang-affiliated friends, providing security for park jams, introduce him to the music world. Access to DJ equipment fuels his obsession. BG later dives into creating hip-hop flyers in the 80s & replicating tickets for discounted club entry.
Oral History with BG 183 (Bronx Aerosol Arts Documentary Project) (2022-03-01) by BG 183 (narrator), Boone, Kurt (interviewer), and Payne, Steven (interviewer)The Bronx County Historical Society
The evolution of Tats Cru
"Like, I'm a graffiti artist, I paint graffiti, now I'm painting faces for these people that died! and I say to myself, 'I can't handle this no more!' I'm hearing the news, I'm doing memorial walls, you know people just dying left and right."
Oral History with BG 183 (Bronx Aerosol Arts Documentary Project) (2022-03-01) by BG 183 (narrator), Boone, Kurt (interviewer), and Payne, Steven (interviewer)The Bronx County Historical Society
What the Bronx means
The Bronx embodies BG183's entire existence. Living here exposed him to diverse aspects of life, from poverty to resilience. Those born and raised here possess inherent talents. The Bronx is a place where everything one desires can be found.
Watch more about BG183 by visiting our website here.
