Subway Art Martha Cooper Henry Chalfont Rare 1986 Graffiti Paperback NY New York

Subway Art is a collaborative book by Martha Cooper and Henry Chalfant, which documents the early history of the New York City graffiti movement. Originally published in 1984, the book has been described as a "landmark photographic history".[1] Known by many as ‘the bible’ of graffiti, Subway Art quickly acquired the dubious accolade of becoming one of the most stolen books in the United Kingdom.[2] The title is a reference to the New York City Subway, where much of the city's graffiti was set during the late 20th century. The book features artists such as Zephyr, Seen, Kase2, Dondi, and Lady Pink.

[@simonbnyc]

Wow, yet another book that meant so much to me in my formative years! I was fortunate that by the time I actually moved to New York in the mid-1980s most of the subway cars were still being heavily tagged and were astonishing to behold. Every ride was an adventure! By the time the 90s came around, the MTA had started a major cleanup of the subway trains and much of the graffiti had disappeared. This book now exists as an important document of art history.

[@photobookguy1380]

I thought this book would be more popular, surprised how few views it has. So if you were in NYC in the mid 80s you must identify with Bruce Davidson's Subway? I keep missing out on copies, but have my eye on one this week I hope to get.

[@simonbnyc]

@@photobookguy1380 Oh yes, I remember when the subway in New York was exactly like the photos in Bruce Davidson's book! I don't have a copy either.