Torrick ‘Toxic’ Ablack

Born in 1965 in the vibrant and culturally rich borough of the Bronx, New York, Torrick Ablack, known to the world as TOXIC, is a significant figure in the graffiti movement of the 1980s. With its dynamic blend of cultures and the burgeoning hip-hop scene, the Bronx provided the perfect backdrop for TOXIC’s artistic emergence. From an early age, he was deeply influenced by the pulsating rhythm of New York City, immersing himself in various facets of hip-hop culture, including DJing and breakdancing. However, it was graffiti that captured his heart and became his true passion.

TOXIC’s foray into street art began at the young age of thirteen, alongside his friends A-One and Kool Koor. Together, they ventured into the heart of the South Bronx, transforming its urban landscape into vibrant canvases of expression. The nickname ‘TOXIC’ was born from his boundless youthful energy, which was particularly evident on the basketball court, where his dynamic presence earned him the moniker of a ‘Toxic Battery.’ As he transitioned into the world of graffiti, this nickname became his signature, marking his work across the city.

TOXIC’s artistic journey took a significant leap forward when he joined the legendary Tag Master Killers crew, under the leadership of the enigmatic Rammellzee. This opportunity came through his close friendship with A-One, a neighbour and fellow skateboard enthusiast, who introduced him to the crew and encouraged his burgeoning talent. Under Rammellzee’s mentorship, TOXIC honed his skills and began to delve into the deeper artistic possibilities of graffiti. Rammellzee’s influence was profound, inspiring TOXIC and his peers to push beyond the boundaries of traditional graffiti, incorporating elements of futurism and abstraction that would come to define their innovative approach to street art.

In 1982, TOXIC met the famous artist Jean-Michel Basquiat at The Roxie nightclub. It was a significant Saturday night, and as the two shared a joint, a friendship was formed that would change TOXIC’s artistic path forever. Basquiat, already making an impact in the art world, saw potential in TOXIC and encouraged him to turn his street art into formal paintings on canvas. Basquiat’s influence was profound. He asked TOXIC, “But how do you eat with trains?” and encouraged him to take his art from the streets to the world of galleries and collectors. Under Basquiat’s guidance, TOXIC began to realize the potential of graffiti as a legitimate art form capable of capturing attention and earning respect in the wider art community.

Afterward, TOXIC went with Basquiat to Los Angeles for an exhibition with the renowned art dealer Larry Gagosian. This trip led to the creation of the iconic ‘Hollywood Africans.’ This piece portrays Basquiat’s time in LA and can be seen as a

historical painting, depicting Jean-Michel Basquiat, Rammellzee, and Toxic as they journey through Hollywood. TOXIC’s inclusion in this artwork, among others, solidifies his status as an essential part of Basquiat’s artistic circle.

TOXIC made his debut in the gallery scene by participating in the groundbreaking “Post-Graffiti” exhibition at the Sidney Janis Gallery in December 1983. Curated by Dolores Neumann, the exhibition featured works by top urban street artists such as A-One, Basquiat, Bear, Brasz, Crane, Crash, Daze, Futura, Haring, Koor, Lady Pink, Leicht, Noc, Lee Quinones, Rammellzee, Kenny Scharf, and TOXIC himself. Some of these artists are among the most notable figures in the early graffiti movement and have achieved global recognition.

In 1984, TOXIC’s influence extended beyond New York, as shown by his participation in the exhibition “Arte di Frontiera: New York Graffiti” in Bologna, Italy. This project was the result of the research of Francesca Alinovi (1948-1983), an art critic who was both detached and deeply involved in the artistic events of the Bolognese scene. Arte di Frontiera was a result of the experiences that Francesca Alinovi had during two trips to New York. For the first time, the exhibition brought to Italy a diverse group of New York artists and graffiti writers, introducing TOXIC and his peers to European audiences and moving graffiti from the streets to the institutional art world. TOXIC attributes Alinovi with changing his life by providing a platform that validated their work as serious art.

In 1985, TOXIC took part in a significant exhibition at Fashion Moda, an influential art space established by Stefan Eins. Fashion Moda played a crucial role in legitimizing graffiti as an art form, offering artists like TOXIC a platform to present their work to a wider audience. The exhibition, titled “Fashion Moda Presents: A-One, TOXIC, KOOR,” marked a pivotal moment in TOXIC’s career, showcasing his importance as a key figure in the graffiti movement. Fashion Moda had a far-reaching influence, bridging the gap between street art and the traditional art world. It was a place where boundaries were blurred, and creativity thrived without constraints. Through his involvement in this exhibition, TOXIC garnered visibility and recognition, solidifying his status as a pioneering artist.

Toxic fondly remembers the experiences he had during his youth, alongside Basquiat. He recalls rubbing shoulders with celebrities at Studio 54 and jamming with Madonna in Basquiat’s New York apartment. These memories reflect a time of boundless artistic exploration and camaraderie. One amusing anecdote involves a party for Basquiat’s exhibition with Mary Boone, where guests included the Rolling Stones, Boy George, and members of Duran Duran. During the party, TOXIC’s friend A-One repeatedly asked Mick Jagger for his name, unaware of the rock star’s fame, resulting in laughter and a reminder of the playful irreverence that characterized their scene.

TOXIC’s influence on the art world goes beyond his graffiti origins. His pieces are showcased in renowned collections, such as the Brooklyn Museum, which is home to his notable artwork ‘Ransom Note EEC’ from 1984. This piece represents TOXIC’s distinctive style, which is characterized by vibrant colours, dynamic compositions, and a playful yet critical exploration of social and cultural themes.

TOXIC’s participation in major retrospectives, such as “Writing the Future: Basquiat and the Hip-Hop Generation” at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, underscores his enduring impact on the art world. These exhibitions highlight the contributions of TOXIC and his peers in shaping the hip-hop culture that had a transformative effect on society. With 40 years of hindsight on this vibrant period characterized by the breaking down of artistic boundaries, we can see through this retrospective how, throughout the 1980s, these pioneering artists, through their creative energy, boldness, and irreverence, fostered an expansion of the arts, design, and music into new territories, challenging norms and conventions, and contributing to the rise of a hip-hop culture that would change society.

“Writing the Future: Basquiat and the Hip-Hop Generation” demonstrates how the subversion of a radically disrupted language, both visual and verbal, propelled these artists, enabling them to secure a significant position and exert a decisive influence on the art and music scenes.

TOXIC’s journey from the streets of the Bronx to the international art scene is a testament to his talent, vision, and perseverance. His work continues to inspire new generations of artists, reminding us of the power of creativity to transcend boundaries and effect change. As one of the rare artists who has been both a subject and a creator of iconic works, TOXIC’s legacy endures as a vibrant testament to the transformative potential of art.

Today, TOXIC lives in the countryside in France, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. While he acknowledges the shift toward digital platforms and the growing influence of marketing in art, he remains nostalgic for the vibrant, interconnected community that shaped his early career. His legacy as a pioneer of graffiti continues to inspire new generations, reminding us of the power of art to transcend boundaries and bring people together.

Reflecting on the era, TOXIC emphasizes the collaborative spirit that defined the 1980s art scene. Artists like A-One, Rammellzee, Dondi White, and Jean-Michel Basquiat shared resources and supported each other, fostering a sense of community that TOXIC feels is lacking in today’s more competitive and individualistic art world. Through this sense of collaboration and mutual support, TOXIC and his contemporaries created a movement that not only redefined the art world but also left an indelible mark on culture at large.

Woodbury House proudly acts as the exclusive partner for TOXIC in the United Kingdom, adding to our significant roster of historically important street or graffiti pioneers. We are proud to present his first solo exhibition at our flagship Mayfair Gallery, ‘All Imperfections Included’. For further information relating to TOXIC, including available works, events, exhibitions, or insights, please feel free to reach out.