AFROLOGY DEBUTS AT ESSEX STREET GALLERY

- James Top to Showcase Special Collection of New Graffiti Works -

James Top, a controversial and legendary Graffiti Artist from New York City, will host his first solo show of the New Year, "Afrology" at the new Essex Street Gallery on Friday February 22nd, 2008, 6pm-Midnight. Special invited press will get a sneak peak of the compelling collection on Thursday February 21st, 2008, 6-10pm. Afrology debuts as seventeen artistic variations of the 1970's hairstyle, the "Afro", and depicts controversial, nostalgic and historical messages of the African-American experiencevia mixed media and graffiti art. As a special note, famed street photographer and artist Jamel Shabazz will collaborate with Top on one exclusive piece at this exciting exhibit debut.

Better known by the media as "The People's Graffiti Artist," James Top has gained his legendary status as a founding member of the The Odd Partners (TOP). As a graffiti crew, TOP would come to dominate the New York City subway system during the mid to late 1970's. Later, James evolved from the "tags" on the subways to elaborate canvas pieces such as those displayed in Afrology. Today James is an art instructor with his latest graffiti workshop having been the subject of controversy within the national and international media. While serving as an example of expression for younger artists, James Top hopes to use the Afrology exhibit to express what he calls "The Black Experience" united by sports, music, historical and current events.

"I take great pride in capturing what I feel is the African American experience in America," says James Top about his solo exhibition here in New York. "It is my time not only to be the voice of graffiti art but also to be the voice of the people in my community." The Essex Street Gallery is located in the Lower East Side, where the heart of graffiti explosion is synonymous with rebellion, controversy and talented artistic expression. "Our [gallery showings] create a window into [the] artists brought together to inspire and support each other in an often hostile environment," says gallery owner, Jordan Cory Sorman.

Afrology is anticipated to be one of the most widely attended street art shows not only because of the significant talent of James Top, but because of his profound messages about being an African-American man in the United States. As an added appeal, famous photographer Jamel Shabazz will collaborate with James on an exclusive art piece that is sure to be one of the most expensive pieces at the exhibit. For fans, it is a true display of how far your street credibility can propel you into an artistic position of prestige and respect.

About James Top: After spending years using New York City trains as murals, James Top has been hailed as one of New York's legendary graffiti artists by the media and street aficionados alike. Since his mural works on trains back in 1986, James is now working as an instructor and consultant with schools, charities, and youth based organizations. James Top is also the producer and host of "Graffiti NYC," a New York City weekly cable TV show which exposes of graffiti's history in different neighborhoods.

About Essex Street Gallery: Opened in November of 2007, the Essex Street Gallery has housed a variety of creative artist from around the world such as Pedro Cuube Arieta and Jordan Schaps. Jordan Cory Sorman is the owner of Essex Street Gallery and has dedicated the gallery to opening its doors every month for new innovative artist. The Gallery is located on 27 ½ Essex Street in the Lower East Side.

Afrology by James Top

February 21, 2008 6pm-10pm- Press ONLY

February 22, 2008 6pm-Midnight (Public)

Essex Street Gallery

27 1/2 Essex St.

New York, NY 10002

www.essexstreetgallery.com