I have an affinity for graffiti. If you know me well, you will notice I have very few belongings that do not include a paint splash here or there. When visiting a new city I tend to return with more images of graffiti sprayed on the architecture than of the beautiful surrounding landscapes. There is something about the spontaneity and freedom of the pieces. The artists work at such fast speeds that an onlooker would think they have a disregard for the outcomes of the designs, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. Graffiti artists perfect their art form and can work at quick speeds while maintaining an astonishing eye for detail.
I have had the pleasure of working with DC artist Rajan Sedalia. He is an unbelievably genuine and modest person who shares my love for graffiti. He is somewhat of a Renaissance man studying art and industrial design and using his education to blend the boundaries of art, design, comics, and graffiti. His work is created on any canvas (jackets, shoes, walls, furniture, etc.) except for public buildings, but that is the beauty of graffiti – it can be found anywhere.
About a year and a half ago I wrote him a very candid email explaining how I was in love with his work on artjar.com, how I wanted to get involved, how cool he was, etc., and he graciously let me assist with some of his events and shows. Always experimenting with his art form to take it to the next level he asked if he could mark up some heels for me to wear around. The first night I wore them I got countless comments from strangers asking where I got them, how could they get a pair…I never wanted to take them off. Rajan would never brag about his work or the numerous awards he has won, but believe me when I say that anything he creates is phenomenal. I encourage you to reach out to him and ask for some custom work…he is more than willing to come up with something personal you or a friend will love.
When I spoke to him about how he became such a talented artist he replied, “I just kept at it. Even when it doesn’t seem like it’s going to work. I kept an open mind and looked for positives in bleak situations. Then, the goodness eventually shines through.”
Put simply, Rajan is down-to-earth and always willing to help out the DC community. We are working together to throw a fundraiser for foster teens in the area, and I couldn’t be more excited to use his art for a good cause. If you need the details just ask - it will be a fantastic night of live graffiti painting, appetizers/drinks, and an evening full of music with a talented DJ to raise funds for DC Family and Youth Initiative!
The images below are a very small sample of his work. If you do decide to purchase one of his pieces, keep it close by…the spotlight is rapidly coming his way.
Rajan is an individual who tackles his dreams every day. I am going to take a page out of his book and finally pursue mine.
