Stephen Powers, a graduate of the University of the Arts, gained prominence under the alias ESPO (Exterior Surface Painting Outreach), a name that earned him recognition not only in the graffiti community but also within the broader contemporary art scene. His work as a publisher of On the Go Magazine and the author of several influential books, including The Art of Getting Over, First and Fifteenth, and Studio Gangster, further solidified his place in the art world. Powers's artistic journey led him to exhibit his work in prestigious galleries, such as New York City's Deitch Projects.

In 2005, Powers launched the Dreamland Artist’s Club, a project aimed at revitalizing Coney Island by enlisting professional artists to repaint signs for local vendors. His innovative approach was recognized with the Fulbright Prize, which allowed him to spend six months in Ireland, where he collaborated with local teenagers from troubled neighborhoods in Dublin and Belfast to create impactful public artwork. Powers returned to Coney Island in 2008, where he unveiled the thought-provoking Coney Island Waterboarding Thrill Ride. The following summer, he embarked on his celebrated Love Letter project.

Powers’s work has received widespread acclaim, with features in major publications such as The New York Times, Juxtapoz, and Artforum. His solo exhibitions include shows at notable galleries such as Joshua Liner Gallery in New York (2012), V1 Gallery in Copenhagen (2011), White Walls Gallery in San Francisco (2009), Alice Gallery in Brussels (2009), Patricia Armocida Gallery in Milan (2008), and Deitch Projects in New York (2004).

Stephen Powers

American

Main

Artist

Printer

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Everything is Shit Except You Love 2020