Share
The crew and I were recently in Asbury Park, NJ, for my “Raw Power” art show and to paint a mural consisting of four walls. I had done a show and painted and pasted murals in Asbury back in 2011, and I’d hoped to return for many years. Asbury has a punk D.I.Y. spirit that is very special. In 2011, I collaborated with Jenn and Porkchop of Asbury Lanes and the Parlor Gallery, as well as gallerist Jonathan LeVine. We got the gang back together for the current show and murals, and I was delighted that Asbury’s very special spirit is alive and well, even as the pressures of gentrification encroach. One of the paste-up murals I did in 2011 was part of my Punk Rock Icons series, featuring Joey Ramone, John Lydon, Joe Strummer, Glenn Danzig, Ian MacKaye, and Henry Rollins. I brought the series back to the Sunset Pavilion, repainted my weathered megaphone mural, and painted new murals of Chuck D of Public Enemy and Joe Strummer of the Clash. The location was right in the thick of things for the Sea Hear Now music festival where I saw amazing performances by Die Spitz, The Pixies, Moby, Fontaines DC, and the Strokes. I also got to do a talk with photographer Danny Clinch, a major talent, cultural force, and festival partner. There was also a parade of giant puppets featuring incredible works by Dennis McNett, Adam Wallacavage, and Swoon. The community turned out in droves despite a drizzle. In terms of my taste and values, the week in Asbury was pretty utopian. Thanks to everyone who supported our projects, including Wooden Walls Project, Parlor Gallery, The Art Spot, PlusOne, Jonathan Levine, Sea Hear Now, and Tim Donnelly. Thanks also to my crew, Dan Flores, Rob Zagula, and Jonathan Furlong who also shot all the photos!
-Shepard
