Crash

John Matos, born in 1961 and widely recognized by his moniker “CRASH,” is a legendary figure in the world of street art. Raised in the vibrant and culturally rich Bronx, New York, CRASH began his artistic journey at the tender age of 13. He was drawn to the pulsating energy of the train yards, where older teens expressed themselves on the metal canvases of subway cars. It was here that CRASH honed his craft, taking his name from an incident where he accidentally crashed a computer at his school. This name soon became synonymous with a bold and revolutionary form of art that took over New York City’s streets and subways.

By 1980, CRASH was ready to move from the train yards to the art galleries. He curated the groundbreaking exhibition “Graffiti Art Success for America” at the famed Fashion MODA, a move that catapulted graffiti from the underground to the respected art world. This exhibition laid the groundwork for what would become a global graffiti movement, influencing countless artists and remaining vibrant to this day.

CRASH’s distinctive style and vision quickly garnered international attention. His work found an enthusiastic audience across Europe, America, and eventually Asia. Over the years, CRASH has participated in numerous museum and gallery exhibitions worldwide, focusing on the dynamic worlds of graffiti and street art. His pieces are now housed in many prestigious permanent museum collections, cementing his status as a pivotal force in contemporary art.

In addition to his artistic endeavors, CRASH has collaborated with various companies, lending his iconic visual style to projects with Absolut Vodka, Fender Guitars, Levi’s, and most recently, Tumi luggage and Morphik. These partnerships showcase his ability to blend commercial appeal with artistic integrity.

Locally, CRASH remains deeply connected to his roots in the Bronx, where he co-owns WALLWORKS NEW YORK, a contemporary art gallery, and Wallworks TWO, a retail boutique dedicated to local artistry. Through these ventures, he continues to support and nurture the next generation of artists.

John Matos, or CRASH, is not just a pioneer of street art; he is a cultural icon whose influence and contributions have helped shape the modern art landscape, making it richer and more inclusive. His legacy continues to inspire artists and art lovers around the globe.