T-Up (Character Study)
Mixed media painting on paper/card stock • DOZE GREEN (American, b. 1964), an original member of the Rock Steady Crew and pioneer of the NYC Subway graffiti movement.
Style & Movement
Urban Contemporary / Graffuturism / Hip Hop Art. The work blends 1970s NYC subway graffiti roots with metaphysical and figurative abstraction.
Medium & Technique
Spray paint, marker, and stencil/posca pen. Techniques include tagging-style drips, layering, and bold outline graphic work.
Creation Period
Circa late 1990s - early 2000s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 x 10 inches; Portrait format, matted and framed.
Subject Description
The work features one of Doze Green's signature 'biological' or 'god-head' characters, characterized by rectangular heads, heavy eyelids, and a sense of 'divine' stillness. The background utilizes traditional graffiti elements like spray drips and clouds in a red, white, and black palette.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The paper appears flat with no significant fading. Note: street-style works often feature intentional irregularities.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD (subject to authentication and medium confirmation).
Auction Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 USD.
Provenance History
Likely acquired via an urban art gallery or street art boutique in the early 2000s; common among collectors of early OBEY or Upper Playground era art.
Art Historical Significance
Doze Green is a seminal figure in the transition of graffiti from trains to galleries. His work bridges the gap between B-boy culture and high-art spiritualism, influencing a generation of 'Graffuturist' artists.
Notable Features
Features the classic 'Doze' character evolution. The bold black line work contrasted against the atmospheric, dripping spray paint background is a hallmark of his early studio practice.
Condition Issues
Minor potential for light acidity in the mount; white spray paint shows some minor drips which are stylistic rather than accidental damage.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the use of UV-protective glass and acid-free archival matting to prevent the marker ink from fading and the paper from yellowing.