Why Tokyo Loves Nasty Neck Face So Much
It would be true to say that Tokyo is a city that knows no boundaries, but it’s also a little false.
When it comes to art and city infrastructures, they don’t mix well: graffiti is something that is found in any given city, but Japan’s capital is extremely strict on wall art and tags, no matter how meaningful and valuable the art may be. Vandalism is punished and shunned excessively, and this creates a difficult environment for graffiti artists. However, Tokyo’s street culture has a particular liking for Californian artist Neck Face and his “nasty” art.
Born and raised in Stockton, California, Tokyo wasn’t exactly on the radar during his early years. He became fond of graffiti as two of his brothers ran a shop meant for this kind of art and began tagging and putting stickers in the streets. Neck Face states that drawing in general kept him away from bad influences in the city, especially when he wasn’t out skating. His talent was quickly found by moguls of the art, fashion, and skateboarding community, and since then, Neck Face has been collaborating with big streetwear brands as well as leaving his art in every city he’s in.
It’s easy to understand why Tokyo adores Neck Face. His naive and ironic art style feels liberating in a constrictive society, and the artist has stated that he actually loves “bad” art and takes inspiration from it. It’s visceral, denuding, and comedically dark, and contrasts with the jovial nature of his character.
Wacko Maria especially treasures him. To celebrate Wacko Maria’s flagship store Paradise Tokyo’s 7th year, there is a collection entirely illustrated by the LA artist. The Japanese print-loving streetwear brand released numerous items with hellish drawings that remind us of the occult as well as cryptic y2k fashion. The link between the brand and Neck Face is strong, which is demonstrated by the massive art piece he drew for the store. On top of that, the Shibuya district is home to a few Nasty Neck Face graffiti - and that is if authorities haven’t taken it down yet. Beyond his extensive collections, parties, and pop-ups here, Neck Face is part of Tokyo’s street culture and his impact on fashion and skating is undeniable.
About the Author:
Mizuki Khoury
Born in Montreal, based in Tokyo. Sabukaru’s senior writer and works as an artist under Exit Number Five.
