Happy 60th Birthday, Futura 2000!
Great artwork can lift and intensify music. What would Björk be without her amazing outfits or AC/DC without their iconic logo?
One of the legendary visual creators who has been working with bands like The Clash, Cabaret Voltaire and UNKLE just turned 60: New York Graffiti artist Futura 2000.
Born Lenny McGurr in 1955, he is one of the early pioneers of New York Graffiti who quickly rose to fame with this stand out abstract pieces as most of the writers of the time rather obsessed with lettering and cartoon characters.
He first started creating artwork for bands when he went on painting alongside The Clash during their tour. He created graphics for their “Combat Rock” album cover and even recorded a couple of tracks himself.
Another classic piece of his is the lettering of Cabaret Voltair’s Fools Game / Gut Level 12″ single from 1983…
His futuristic style caught the attention of label boss James Lavelle who based most album covers of his iconic MoWax label on his paintings and lettering. This way Futura 2000 broke into the visual consciousness of a whole new generation of music fans and record collectors.
Futura went on to become one of the most influential artists in Graffiti and Street Art with his artwork adorning products from headphones, spirit bottles all the way to skate decks, collectable toys and fashion items.
In addition to that do his giant canvasses hang in the best contemporary museums around the world. Keep your eyes peeled!
So Happy Birthday Mr McGurr! To the next 60 years…
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