Graffiti Blackbooks: Bates

Graffiti Blackbooks is a new series of monographic books dedicated to some of Europe's most historic graffiti writers. The first chapter focuses on Bates, a key figure who has been shaping the scene since 1984. Despite his long career, personal publications have been rare, with his last book dating back to 1998. This volume is structured like an authentic blackbook, presenting a collection of Bates' sketches that were later painted on walls. The pages are genuine copies, showing traces of paint, spray dust, and creases from being carried in a pocket. Selected sketches are paired with the final wall pieces, allowing readers to study the evolution from paper to concrete. A fundamental title in our Graffiti Books collection, it also includes texts where Bates shares his thoughts on letters and style.