Cey Adams Closing Reception

The Leonard Pearlstein Gallery at Drexel University’s Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, in collaboration with Mural Arts Philadelphia, will present “Cey Adams, Departure: 40 Years of Art and Design,” a retrospective exhibition of the renowned New York-based artist Cey Adams. This career-spanning exhibit, on display through October 5, showcases over 60 pieces, including photography, mixed media, paintings, and street art, highlighting Adams’ evolution as an artist. His work, which delves into themes of pop culture, race, gender, and community, reflects his transformative influence on multiple cultural and music movements, particularly his groundbreaking role as the founding Creative Director for Def Jam Recordings, where he shaped the visual identity of the Hip-Hop era.

Adams’ retrospective also features unique collaborations with global brands like Levi’s, Apple, and Mattel Creations, underscoring his versatile use of color, shapes, and letterforms. Notable displays include a custom denim jacket for Levi’s and a large 3D Hot Wheels logo sculpture for Mattel. This exhibition serves as both a celebration of Adams’ creative journey and an illustration of how graffiti, street art, and Hip-Hop have unified diverse communities. Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia, emphasizes how Adams’ work reflects art’s role in sparking cultural conversations, while Philip Asbury, Director of Community Murals, highlights how graffiti-inspired skills can open new artistic and economic opportunities.