Although the meaning of ‘OG’ seems to have developed a life on its own over time, at least in the BSTN universe the “an expert at something” meaning still gets the most votes these days. In case of doubt, you might as well put a picture of DEFER next to it though, given his (pun intended) stripes the Los Angeles graffiti pioneer earned by distorting the lines between street art and fine art for over 30 decades already:
Known for his intricate signature calligraphy and lettering style, the artist first started out under the alias ‘KAOS2’ as part of the KS2 crew and subsequently refined his signature hand styles: Inspired by LA’s love for black lettering and the neighborhood graffiti of local tribes, DEFER turned letters into abstract pieces, incorporating cultural motifs, typography and complex patterning alike.
Since then, the works of the first generation LA graffiti icon have garnered international recognition and can be found in museums worldwide, as well as in collections by the likes of Lebron James, Apple, Los Angeles Lakers and LL Cool J – plus on Porsches, boxing rings, giant billboards and more. For more insights on his beginnings in 1980s’ LA and why rendering letters is his ‘Spiritual Language’, just watch the insightful interview above.
