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In the last two weeks we've brought you the Complex Man of the Year in Sports and Music. This week we're keeping the Man of Next Year poll going and taking a look at the artists and designers who will dominate 2013.
Marc Ecko sat down with our art editors to discuss the the Men of Next Year in art and design. Many names were thrown out, but there could only be five nominees.
Who do you think is going to set the art world on fire in 2013? Vote below! You can also keep up with the conversation on Twitter by using the #MONY13 hashtag. Vote often to see your pick when.
Watch Marc Ecko and Complex's art and design editors debate the Men of Next Year in Music:
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Jonathan Levine
Jonathan LeVine brought a DIY attitude to the art world and gave New York's bustling Chelsea art scene a powerful punch of work inspired by illustration, comic books, graffiti, and popular culture since 2005.
LeVine's gallery has continually pushed emerging talents, and in 2013 the schedule explodes with a veritable who's who of street art. Beginning with Haroshi in January, through Pose and Revok in June, and ending with AJ Fosik in December, LeVine gives us reason to be on West 20th Street each and every month.
Patrick Martinez
L.A.-based Patrick Martinez has been steadily progressing over the last few years.
He came to widespread attention with a neon work reading "LESS DRAKE, MORE TUPAC." Then, rather than succumb to easy pop culture spins, continued to push his unique investigation of the American dream and marginal communities. Martinez collaborated with Maybach Music's Stalley for the cover of Savage Journey to the American Dream in early 2012, and rounded out the year with solo showings in L.A. and Dallas. Bigger and better is expected for 2013.
Kahlil Joseph
Pushing the boundaries of film isn't easy. However, Los Angeles-based Kahill Joseph continues to remind of the emotive potential of moving image. His shorts—like music videos for "Black Up" by Shabazz Palaces and "Until the Quiet Comes" by Flying Lotus—do much more than propel a song. His narratives explore disjointed urban environments. We can't stop watching.
BJ Betts
Tattooing isn't go anywhere. In fact, the art is only getting better.
BJ Betts is the undisputed master of tattoo lettering. He's written five genre defining guides, setting industry standards while pushing the boundaries of how words are inked on the body. Betts' has also offered artistic services for the likes of adidas, Nike, and Sullen clothing. In 2013, look for the Delaware-based to increase his mainstream foothold and solidify his tattoo legacy.
RETNA
Retna's been around the world. He's painted full museum facades. He's solidified his own unique calligraphic graffiti style.
Still, Retna hasn't yet become a household name. Could this be the year? Coming off a spectacular solo show at Michael Kohn Gallery, rumors began circulating the the L.A.-based street artist is next in line for a Louis Vuitton collaboration. If that happens, he's certain to have a mega 2013.
