BUKU Music + Arts Project’s Live Graffiti Gallery featured 14 New Orleans artists whose work was auctioned off to benefit the artists and two non-profit organizations.
Artists were presented with blank canvases and created genuine art that reflected the true meaning of what BUKulture is meant to be.
One of the artists to be featured in the Live Graffiti Gallery was Uter. For him, artwork is not just visual, but also a means of communication.
He mostly uses spray paint for his artwork, but also creates small statues. Working hard to ensure that his work is something people can relate to is a must.
Art isn’t just what he does; it’s who he is. His passion for art goes so far that he never even takes a photo of himself without wearing a mask. He said it doesn’t matter the type of mask, as long as it’s a mask.
Uter said he communicates through his artwork because he isn’t “super great with words.”
“It’s a product of me,” Uter said. “It’s what I give back to the world, if that makes any sense. I think everyone has a purpose in the world, and art is mine.”
Prior to showcasing some of his work at this year’s fest, Uter completed some art for BUKU about two years ago. He’s also shown his work at Coachella and various raves over the years.
He said the best part of showcasing artwork at BUKU is being able to experience all the music that comes along with it. He’s recently moved back to New Orleans after living in California for the past two years.
Uter has an art show planned for April 13 at Engine Gallery in New Orleans. His Instagram @charlinomob features a plethora of his works, most of which are graffiti style.
Funds raised through the auction will go to the Upbeat Academy Foundation and Animal Rescue (ARNO) in New Orleans.
Upbeat Academy Foundation, formed in 2013, is a nonprofit that seeks to develop inner-city youth’s electronic and hip-hop music production skills. Local DJs, producers and rappers hold daily classes in the Upbeat studio, giving students access to laptops, mixers, turntables, microphones, instruments, headphones and the latest production software.
The foundation also aims to introduce students to the business side of the music industry by offering real-life experience, case studies and opportunities for the kids to meet their favorite musicians.
ARNO was formed in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and is dedicated to the rescue and aid of abandoned and homeless animals. The organization caters to those in need of medical care and animals who have been abused or neglected. ARNO, a no-kill shelter, promotes fostering, adoption, spaying and neutering.
Most of the art created was vibrant, but some artists, like Uter, used black and white paint to get their messages across.
These works added to the authenticity of the festival because they were made on the festival grounds themselves, without being planned or premeditated.
