RoCo's latest public art project, a series of collages by Nova mixes historical images of Rochester, NY with contemporary graffiti art found in and around those locations. Through careful selection and arrangement of torn and layered images, the artist seeks to capture the raw energy and intricate details of graffiti, while also highlighting the unique characteristics of the locations where it thrives. The collages invite viewers to consider the relationship between art, space, and the human experience, exploring how graffiti can both reflect and shape the urban environment.

Pictured here is a detail. The full public installation is installed outside RoCo and available to the public 24/7.

My artwork is a visual dialogue, a conversation between the past and the present. By selecting historical, often forgotten corners of the city and juxtaposing them with contemporary graffiti, I hope to create visually striking and thought-provoking compositions that invite viewers to consider the ways in which our city has changed over time. Every collage is a unique story that brings together pieces of many late nights, people, and places of my past. - Nova

About the Artist

Nova (Rochester, NY) is a creative director and collage artist whose work draws inspiration from his past as a graffiti writer. Through careful selection and arrangement of torn and layered images, Nova seeks to capture the raw energy and intricate details of his previous works. Re-imagining his graffiti through collage not only lets him revisit those moments of his past, but experience them in a new way, through the lens of time and growth. Nova aims to elevate graffiti as a powerful tool for self-expression while challenging traditional notions of what constitutes art, and the role that graffiti plays in democratizing access to creative expression. Nova has exhibited in numerous group shows in NY, SC, NC, and OH, as well as a recent solo exhibition at Lumiere in Rochester, NY. He has also created numerous public art installations across the country both independently and collaboratively. @graff_fragments

Public Art at RoCo

RoCo’s public art program enlivens the East Avenue neighborhood with temporary, site-specific public sculptures and special projects. Support provided by The New York State Council on the Arts, Farash Foundation, Mary S. Mulligan Charitable Trust, The County of Monroe, Richard Schwartz, Anne Havens, and Members of RoCo! This installation is presented in partnership with Christ Church and adjacent to the Cooney Family Garden.

The New York State Council on the Arts
The Farash Foundation
The County of Monroe
The Mary S. Mulligan Charitable Trust
The Gouvernet Arts Fund
The Foster Charitable Trust
The Lovenheim Trust
and over 1,000 Members!