Collection: Fab 5 Freddy

Fred Braithwaite AKA Fab 5 Freddy is an American visual artist, filmmaker and hip-hop pioneer. Emerging from New York’s creative scene in the late 70s, he is often credited with bridging the gap between the burgeoning uptown rap scene and the downtown No-wave art scene.

His work is highly influential, helping to establish afro-futurism in the visual arts and connect counter-culture movements and contemporary art across America. His extensive creative resume has seen him work with the likes of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Blondie, Nas and The Clash.

In April 1981, Fab 5 Freddy co-curated the graffiti related art-show ‘Beyond words’ with fellow street art pioneer Futura 2000. The show included their own works along with art from Basquiat, Kenny Scharf, Rammellzee, Keith Haring and more. His style continues to be forward-thinking, ripples of his influence being seen across many artists' work to this day.