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R.I.P. Suly
NOMAD and PER
Soundview, Bronx, N.Y.
Memorial Walls, New York
Photos by Martha Cooper
Over the last decade in New York City, a new form of urban public art arose in response to countless tragic and untimely deaths. Young graffiti artists who perfected their skills spray-painting on subway cars began to accept commissions to create murals commemorating the lives of victims of violence. These colorful paintings now abound in grim neighborhoods where violent death has become a part of everyday life.
Every wall is different but the content relates closely to the memorialized person's life. It is not unusual to find paintings of favorite cars, motorcycles, articles of brand name clothing, or even beer bottles mixed with doves, angels, and religious symbols. Most New York cemeteries are located far from the city so memorial walls offer a place close to home for community members to gather and grieve and reminisce about their lost relatives and friends. These walls offer solace in the face of tragedy.
—from R.I.P. Memorial Wall Art by Martha Cooper and Joseph Sciorra, published by Henry Holt and Company, 1994
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 In Memory of Richie
DRAGON
Inwood, Manhattan
R.I.P. Chieto
PER
Bronx, N.Y.
Chieto's Mom and friends at fifth year memorial celebration dance
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