NORWALK, CT - The newest exhibition at The Norwalk Art Space (TNAS) will feature a curated collection of music, visual art, and archival material which will invite viewers to immerse themselves in the rich history and cultural significance of CT’s own Dooley-O and long time collaborator, Jerry Gant. It honors hip-hop’s transformative power and two visionary artists who helped shape its evolution.

Dooley-O, a graffiti writer, rapper, and music producer from New Haven, Connecticut, was selected as a 2024-25 Korry Fellow at TNAS earlier this year, and is preparing for his upcoming exhibition, which opens on September 5th. With his groundbreaking sampling techniques and dynamic beats, Dooley-O revolutionized the hip-hop scene, influenced countless artists, and shaped the sound of underground hip-hop. His seminal track "Watch My Moves” was created through collaborations with renowned producers Double K from P.U.T.S and Blacastan. In addition to his unique sound, Dooley-O’s visual artistry also influenced hip-hop culture. He curated and produced “GTV” videos that captured the underground graffiti movement - including his participation in that movement - and brought credibility to the mural trend occurring all over the country.

The exhibition, curated by artist and 2021 TNAS Korry Fellow Jahmane, will also feature the artwork of Jerry Gant, a Newark, New Jersey native who passed away in 2018. Gant was a visionary whose artistry transcended the boundaries of hip-hop. As a prolific graffiti artist, poet, and performer, Gant's work vividly depicted the socio-political realities of urban life and became a powerful cultural narrative. Gant's legacy as a mentor and community activist continues to inspire, demonstrating his creative spirit’s profound impact on the art world and the communities he passionately served.

Curator Jahmane states, “This exhibition will represent the work of two multidisciplinary street artists who constantly innovated and contributed to the global phenomenon of hip-hop culture”.

The opening reception will be held on September 5th from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at The Norwalk Art Space, 455 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT.