Art of Hip Hop proudly presents “Cey Adams: Departure – 40 Years of Art and Design,” a career-defining retrospective of the acclaimed artist and founding creative director of DEF JAM Recordings. Sponsored by Spotify, the exhibition runs from December 4, 2024, to March 1, 2025, with an official public opening on December 4 at noon following a media preview on December 3.
Adams’ expansive exhibition features over 60 works across various mediums including photography, mixed media collages, fashion, and street art. It showcases a visual journey through his artistic evolution, exploring themes such as pop culture, race, and community. A highlight of the exhibit is a wall installation featuring more than 50 iconic album covers he designed for legendary Hip Hop artists including Run DMC, LL Cool J, and The Notorious B.I.G.
During Art Week, visitors can enjoy the Spotify Artists Lounge from December 4 to 6, where they can partake in live music, exclusive merchandise drops, and create personalized Spotify playlists using the new ‘Create Cover Art’ feature.
“Graffiti and Hip-Hop have the power to unite people from diverse backgrounds,” Adams stated. “This retrospective is a celebration of how these art forms have shaped global culture.”
Noteworthy collaborations with brands like Levi’s® and Mattel Creations are also featured, including a custom denim trucker jacket that pays homage to Adams’ roots and a large-scale sculpture of the Hot Wheels logo.
“Bringing Cey Adams’ extraordinary career to life in this retrospective is a thrill,” said Alan Ket, cofounder and curator of Art of Hip Hop. “His impact on Hip Hop’s visual language makes this exhibition essential for anyone interested in contemporary art and culture.”
The collectors’ preview takes place at 11 a.m. on December 4, followed by the public opening at noon, with tickets priced at $25 available exclusively at www.artofhiphop.com. A VIP celebration presented by Google Pay will also be held by invitation only.
Cey Adams, a New York City native, played a key role in defining Hip Hop’s visual style alongside contemporaries like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring. His work has been displayed in prestigious institutions such as the Smithsonian and MoMA, and he is the author of notable publications on Hip Hop art and design. Follow him on Instagram @ceyadams.
Art of Hip Hop, located in Miami’s Wynwood district, is dedicated to exploring the dynamic interplay between graffiti, street art, and Hip Hop culture. Through its exhibitions and programs, the gallery serves as a cultural hub fostering creativity and dialogue in urban art.