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Opening Sept. 3 at Tia cafe in Williamsburg, "Graphic Poetry: by Tha Black Krayon" is a provocative exhibition of works by Los Angeles-based artist Upendo Taylor.

Curator Lynn del Sol says two major recurring themes in Krayon’s work are decay and renewal. The graffiti and graphic artist mainly works on found materials, such as discarded and damaged boxes, cardboard, signs, furniture and wood.

Among the more than 20 works on display is "Poetry NYC." In "Poetry," a kinetic figure is snipped from a subway map and MetroCards from the Bedford L station are recycled into art.

In a statement, Krayon describes his philosophy about his works: "[It’s] just a way to look at some things. Graphic poetry started as something I used to do before I would start drawing. Kinda like a warm-up.

"But the doodles started to take on expression - a non-verbal story or emotion. So I began to explore. Going big and giving them color to further the expression. Now I use it in all my art and graphic pieces."

The artist says he uses the moniker Tha Black Krayon as "a way of both honoring a dear departed friend" and separating his dream state from reality.

The artist’s reception for "Graphic Poetry" is from 8 to 11 pm on Sept. 3 and the works are on display through Sept. 29 at Tia cafe (128 Bedford Ave. between North Ninth and North 10th streets in Williamsburg). For cafe hours, call (718) 388-8058.

©2004 Community Newspaper Group