Rest In Piece: IZ THE WIZ
Graffiti writing pioneer IZ THE WIZ (Michael Martin) died last night from heart failure. The legendary vandal, president of The Master Blasters crew, has been described as the “longest reigning all-city king in NYC history” for his prolific work on several subway lines during the 70s and 80s. IZ was one of the main characters profiled in graffiti cult classic, Style Wars (9:38 mark) and is widely regarded as an influential figure in the movement. He was also a great guy and one of the humblest writers I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting, so here’s a toast in honor of IZ THE WIZ: To a graffiti writer whose name will never fade.
Photo via Zomboider
by Bucky Turco on June 18, 2009 at 2:14 pm
Editor-in-Chief:
Well said. The TPA Crew will FOREVER remember and honor IZ as what this culture was and is all about. He was there, at the root. Go to http://www.sl-9.blogspot.com for a eulogy and leave a comment.
Ever since i went through subway.org extensive picture collection, he was my hero. His stuff was on so many cars.
Rip.
thanks animal for always giving me photo credits for stolen pictures
my entire flickr stream is full of graffiti pictures stolen off other blogs and websites