The book, beautifully designed by celebrated former graffiti artist, painter and graphic designer
Cey Adams, features scores of iconic images by some of the best-known photographers of the era, including Glen E. Friedman, Ricky Powell, Janette Beckman, Martha Cooper, David Corio, Ernie Paniccioli, Michael Halsband, Annie Liebovitz and Jonathan Mannion. These photos are complemented by rare artifacts and memorabilia from Def Jam’s archives, including behind-the-scenes photos, flyers, advertisements, movie posters, album cover art and magazine covers.
These designs were created for a 3D book on modern art.
I was asked to create front and back cover art for LTD a youth culture magazine. I thought it would be an interesting challenge to incorporate two of my favorite loves into one, graphic design and sports. Growing up in Queens, New York, I've always had a very personal connection to the Mets as well as the Knicks. Their orange and blue represent the colors of the flag for New York City. Today everyone is familiar with idea of art and design, I feel like these logos can relate to different generations.
My design incorporates bright colors that convey a message of warmth. I wanted to celebrate the unity, peace and love of old school hip hop. My goal was to create an updated version of club flyers from the early 80's.
adidas presents the Ali Values Project, fusing sport and street culture, an apparel collection reflecting Muhammad Ali’s core values: “respect,
confidence, dedication, conviction, spirituality and giving.” Featuring the works of LeRoy Neiman,
Cey Adams, Shephard Fairey, Eric Bailey, HVW8, and Usurgrow, the Ali Values Project featured paintings and illustrations based on classic images from Ali’s career.
silkscreen and acrylic on canvas 36X36"
Adicolor, BL2 apparel collection for adidas designed by former graffiti artist and Def Jam Recordings' creative mind
Cey Adams. limited edition sneakers and track suits inspired by old school hip hop and breakdancing fused with popular tags from back in the day like “Fresh”, “Unity” and “Peace”.
MoMA caught up with Cey Adams, founding creative director of Def Jam Recordings, in MoMA’s Looking at Music 3.0 exhibition gallery, and he talked to us about his work, the emergence of hip-hop, and his unwavering allegiance to the possibilities of culture.
