Spray Nation

Spray Nation by Martha Cooper and Roger Gastman presents an extraordinary photographic journey into New York City’s underground graffiti culture of the 1980s. This remarkable collection showcases previously unpublished images from Martha Cooper’s extensive archives, documenting the vibrant street art movement that defined a generation. Cooper, one of the world’s most renowned graffiti photographers, spent decades capturing art that was often overlooked and usually illegal. Her legendary collaboration on the 1984 book Subway Art established her as the definitive chronicler of this underground scene. In 1980s New York, graffiti writers sought out Cooper to document their work, recognizing her unique ability to preserve their ephemeral creations for posterity. Published by Prestel Verlag, this 288-page photography book offers an intimate look at the artists, techniques, and cultural significance of New York’s graffiti revolution. These rare images provide unprecedented access to a pivotal moment in street art history, when subway cars became moving canvases and abandoned buildings transformed into galleries. Experience the raw energy and artistic innovation that shaped modern urban culture through Cooper’s iconic lens. Add this essential photography collection to your library today.