Marked Man
Guerilla artist James De La Vega leverages his street smarts to a fashion career
- By Colin Fleming
- Smithsonian magazine, October 2007, Subscribe
“I like the idea of the artist going out in the world, creating a dialogue,” says De La Vega (in the East Village with one of his street paintings). “Art is interacting with people.” (Erica Freudenstein)
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Comments (9)
James De La Vega is inspiration to the Latino culture. I was given the chance to see to experience his work transcend from Harlem to the East Village. The change of locations of his museum was the exact same for me and my family. We moved to the East Village as well, upon meeting him he was an individual who possessed an extraordinary presence with phenomenal work. His work showed his passion and care for the people. My school, The State University of New York at Fredonia is very interested in having James De La Vega visit and speak at our school. We will be able to cover any transportation needed and reservations. It will be an honor for us to do so. Please if anyone knows how to contact James De la Vega or someone associated with him Please let me know. Thank you
Posted by Tamiko Orasio on December 24,2012 | 08:08 PM
i too want to know where to purchase a canvas of the kissing fish?!?!?!?
Posted by ivy on November 15,2010 | 12:48 PM
does anyone know where i can find his work now that the museum has closed? i am looking for one of his pieces as a gift and don't know how to find it.
Posted by tlr on October 10,2010 | 07:38 PM
I am sorry to be the harbinger of bad news, the DELAVEGA Museum has officially closed its doors this pass Monday. The following is a short farewell speech given by the artist after bringing down the store shutters for the last time.
"I would like to thank all the DELAVEGA supporters and its detractors. Both are always forever welcome to eat from our humble dinner table."
Posted by DELAVEGA Collective on August 19,2010 | 10:02 PM
James De La Vega blew me away the moment I met him. He is incredibly kind when others try their hardest to be rude. He is interested when others don't care. He expresses beauty and truth when others just want to celebrate themselves. He cares. How many people do you know who actually care?
Thank you, Mr. De La Vega, for your beautiful work! Keep it coming!
Posted by Anna on June 9,2010 | 09:59 PM
I think De La Vega is an amazing artist. I've met him once before as a freshman in highschool and had a conversation with him, hes a very intellectual person who reflects the thoughts of society and the tradition and customs of Puerto Rico in his art. It would be a dream come true just to have another conversation with him about society and his views.
Posted by Marisol on June 2,2010 | 03:35 PM
DE LA VEGA transcends NYC street culture. He is a philosopher and philanthropist, whose hand of influence has stretched its fingers around the globe.
Posted by Vincent on April 28,2010 | 11:25 PM
Those with weak stomachs should not venture into a space filled with thoughts or ideas. Its dangerous. DELAVEGA's work continues to change yet stays the same as it embodies the streets of NYC from chalk to cards to t-shirts to canvas. He is indeed an innovator.
Posted by Lunch on April 10,2010 | 10:42 PM
regardless of the sociopolitical commentary and the artist's history, you will be hard pressed to describe his current "work" displayed in his "museum" as anything but Racist and Anti Semitic...
Posted by lamalo on February 23,2010 | 02:50 PM