Wasn't previously aware Fred Radtke had died, so thank you for posting.

Good read. And a fitting tribute by the article's author, Doug MacCash.



Although I disagreed with his position, or rather its lack of nuance and discrimination, Radtke was formidable. He had conviction, and by god he was committed. Difficult not to respect that level of commitment from an adversary, even if it crossed over into obsession.



The Grey/Gray Ghost was also what the scene needs. So MacCash's reference to mutual dependence is entirely apt.

After all, what is graffiti?

Without the cops, the authorities more generally, and private individuals like Radtke, it certainly would not be the graffiti that many of us love.

Assuming you're referring to the former Tremé piece, that was a case of the artist playing with the existing surroundings.

It was Banksy who created a rat from the shape left by some exposed brickwork (after the render had already cracked and fallen away), as opposed to some clown having later chipped out the rat.


I hope this will help to shift the story for you — from previously-irritating to feel-good.

Do you by any chance have a photo of the boy playing the trumpet that used to be on a door of an abandoned house in the 9th ward? I’m searching my files and I can’t find that one!!!

London-based.

And you're welcome. Happy to be of service from afar.


I would add that yours was a reasonably-held erred belief, when taking into account the typical fate of Banksy street pieces.

In addition, the mild embarrassment you might be experiencing is only temporary. It is insignificant compared to the amusing story you now have. Play your cards right, and you've got a lifetime of dinner-party laughs.