The story of Five Pointz begins in the 1990s, when a group of visionary artists decided to transform an abandoned factory building into a street art mecca. They called it Five Pointz, and it quickly became a magnet for artists, musicians, and performers from all over the city. It was like a Bohemian paradise, minus the patchouli and poor life choices.
Over the years, Five Pointz has played host to some of the biggest names in street art, including Shepard Fairey and Invader. It's like the Met Gala of street art, minus the boring speeches and fancy dresses. And the best part? The art is constantly changing, so you'll never see the same thing twice - unless you're trying to stalk your favorite street artist, in which case, please don't.
5 Pointz "graffiti mecca" in Long Island City faces imminent
In 2013, the city decided to tear down Five Pointz to make way for a new condo development. Yeah, because what the city really needed was more overpriced apartments and soulless high-rises. It was like the artistic equivalent of a punch to the gut. But, in a surprising twist, the artists fought back, and in 2018, a federal court ruled that the developers had to pay $6.7 million in damages to the artists - a major victory for street art and a big middle finger to the man.
Today, Five Pointz is still going strong, albeit in a slightly different form. The original building may be gone, but the spirit of Five Pointz lives on, with new murals and art installations popping up all over the city. It's like the phoenix rising from the ashes, minus the fire and destruction. So, if you're ever in Long Island City, be sure to stop by and check out the latest and greatest in street art - your Instagram followers will thank you!
5 Pointz Aerosol Art Center in Long Island City to be demolished
