Beauty, resistance, or both? Graffiti has long been a powerful form of artistic expression because it gives voice to people and communities who are often overlooked. Murals and street pieces can revitalize neighborhoods, spark conversations, and inspire new generations of artists. It transforms public spaces into open galleries where anyone can contribute, challenge norms, or share their story. Its immediacy and visibility make it a uniquely accessible art form — one that doesn’t wait for permission to exist.
Learn more at Graffiti Legends: Culture Talk on February 26 at 7:30 PM. Register »
This season of O-pa’s Hip Hop Lab series is themed around “Back to the Beginning” — celebrating the roots of hip hop culture. The Graffiti Legends culture talk brings two iconic graffiti artists into conversation with Omaha artists Houston Alexander and Hugo Zamorano. Joining virtually for the in-person event, Justin BUA and Lady Pink will dig into graffiti art, its vibrant history, and what it means in the communities that use it today.
Justin BUA is an artist, author, and documentarian of hip hop culture. Growing up in the wild streets of New York City, his life was shaped by B-Boys, DJs, graffiti writers, and the raw poetry of the block. BUA’s work lives where fine art meets street narrative — elongated forms, lyrical lines, and stories pulled straight from the soul. Over 16 million prints of his DJ image have moved worldwide, and his work has shaped everything from NBA and NFL Street to museum walls like LACMA.
Lady Pink started writing graffiti in 1979 and soon became known as the only female capable of competing with the boys in the graffiti subculture. Pink painted subway trains from the years 1979-1985, having a starring role in the motion picture Wild Style in 1982. That role and her other significant contributions to graffiti have made her a cult figure in hip hop culture.
