Miami is in the midst of a cultural revolution and it is taking hold of local talent everywhere by storm. Proactive in all his efforts, Miami-based graffiti artist, Trek6, is at the forefront of this movement. Influenced by a Puerto Rican urban upbringing, Trek was constantly surrounded by a supportive artistic environment, namely from his grandmother who ensured he would be artistically mentored throughout his childhood. Moving back to Miami 3 years ago, Trek became heavily submersed in street art. Many graffiti artists experience only a transient moment of spontaneous fame based around mystery, before they build enough momentum to be commonly known or commercialized. “I’m not expecting this to last too long,” Trek acknowledges. “That’s why you have to enjoy it while it’s there.” Never focusing on the branding aspect of the art of tagging, he has instead chosen to emphasize the attitude of it all, emphasizing the “story point of view rather than the name.”
While this marks a pinnacle year for Miami and its street art, Trek remains composed and realistic. “I try not to get excited too easily,” Trek explains, “I’m very inquisitive.” Trek believes that we will finally see if Miami can genuinely contend with other cities rich in street art, like LA, San Francisco, and Barcelona…or just fall back. “I don’t think that’s what will happen,” Trek affirms. It is clear that he acknowledges the potential of all his work, but also recognizes that a movement can only advance if people take a proactive stance together. “I don’t have a singular message in my work, really. It’s free flowing and in the moment. Each work is so engagingly different. But I do urge everyone to just be proactive. Just pay attention.” There is always exciting things happening which are constantly adding energy and momentum to the gradually growing buzz above the Miami art scene. Don’t blink—you might miss it.