Lady Pink
Alice Riot curator and co-founder Kate Iverson has worked with hundreds of artists over her career. Her discerning, interpretive eye when observing their works serves her well; an artist herself, she has a knack for identifying pieces that leave an impact and hold value, both in visual content and narrative context.
While curating this collection, Kate recalled the legendary backstory and reputation of Lady Pink, the iconoclastic 1980s NYC graffiti writer. Her first call with the artist was a true moment, and we loved hosting her at our September 5 collection launch event in NYC. Collaborating with this artistic legend is a thrill.
Lady Pink, with Stefanie Thiele, at our September 5 launch event at Blue Gallery, NYC.
If you’re not well-versed on the graffiti subculture, we highly encourage you to explore the legacy of the “First Lady of Graffiti.”
Born in Ecuador and raised in New York City, Lady Pink is an institution. She started writing on trains in 1979, soon earning a reputation in the NYC graffiti subculture as the only female who actively competed with the boys. Over the years, she's focused on using art as an act of rebellion and self-expression -- both on the street and in the gallery. Her graffiti work, a starring role the iconic 1982 motion picture "Wild Style,” and other significant contributions have made Pink a cult figure whose story is deeply woven into the fabric of New York City.
Original work: Lady Pink – Untitled, 2019 – acrylics on canvas, 36” x 36” - $8,400
Lady Pink’s original work for this collection is graphic, bold, and nostalgic – and transfers to our garments in a look that’s both arresting and stylish. Untitled is an homage to the legacy of 1980s NYC subway graffiti tags. She combines her original graffiti tags with nods to other legendary writers of that time – including Sane Smith, the notorious writer duo that famously hit the top of the Brooklyn Bridge (one half of whom Pink is married to and collaborates with under the moniker PinkSmith). The painting speaks to the tremendous shifts in culture at that time; it’s a rare, introspective glimpse into the 1980s through the eyes of one who undoubtedly helped shape its history and its impact on culture today.
Pencil skirt, Untitled, 2019 - Lady Pink
We are humbled and honored to offer this Lady Pink original work, as well as its limited-edition print on our garments. Count both Kate and I as two total fan girls who have nothing but major respect for her influence.
