Graffiti and Cannabis | The streets of New York City’s Lower East Side (LES) have always been alive with stories. For decades, graffiti has been one of the most powerful ways these stories are told, transforming the LES into a canvas of resilience, rebellion, and raw creativity. As graffiti evolved from a counterculture movement to a celebrated art form, its roots in the LES remained intertwined with another cultural force: cannabis.

At ConBud, we’re not just about cannabis—we’re about celebrating the communities and histories that shaped it. Today, we’re diving into the rich history of graffiti in the LES and exploring its unique connection to cannabis culture.

The Rise of Graffiti in the LES

The 1970s and 80s were a transformative time for the LES. Amid economic challenges and social upheaval, graffiti became a voice for the voiceless. Artists armed with spray cans turned the streets into galleries, reclaiming public spaces to share their stories and express their identities.

Key moments from the LES graffiti movement:

• Early Beginnings: Graffiti pioneers began tagging walls and subway trains, with each artist creating a unique signature style. Names like “Ace from Outer Space” emerged as legends, representing the creative spirit of a generation.
• Community Hubs: Local stores became lifelines for graffiti artists, and none were more pivotal than the shop owned by Mario Ramos on Allen Street. Mario’s store wasn’t just a place to buy spray paint—it was a safe haven where artists gathered to share ideas, find inspiration, and support one another. Behind its half-lowered gate, Mario fostered a community that thrived on creativity and mutual respect.
• Graffiti and the Crack Epidemic: During the 1980s, the LES was deeply affected by the crack epidemic. For many, graffiti provided an escape and a means of self-expression amid the turmoil. Cannabis, too, became a coping mechanism and a source of community for those navigating these challenging times.

Graffiti and Cannabis: A Cultural Connection

Graffiti and cannabis share more than just a rebellious spirit—they’re both rooted in the counterculture movements of the 20th century. Here’s how they intersect:

• Creativity and Cannabis: Many graffiti artists have credited cannabis with enhancing their creativity, helping them see the world from new perspectives and inspiring some of their most iconic pieces.
• Community and Connection: Spaces like Mario Ramos’ shop became hubs where graffiti and cannabis culture overlapped. Artists often smoked cannabis to unwind, exchange stories, and build bonds that extended beyond the art.
• Advocacy and Resistance: Both graffiti and cannabis have faced criminalization, with artists and users often targeted by law enforcement. Today, as cannabis becomes legalized and graffiti celebrated, their shared history serves as a testament to resilience and the power of cultural expression.

The Legacy of Graffiti in the LES

Even as the LES evolves, its graffiti legacy remains. Many walls still bear the marks of early artists, and new murals continue to emerge, addressing modern social issues like anti-Asian hate and mass incarceration. These works bridge the past and present, reminding us of the LES’s role as a hub of activism and creativity.

For Mario Ramos, the legacy of his store lives on in the artists whose lives he touched. One artist from the docuseries reflects on how Mario’s support and the sense of community he built saved his life, giving him purpose and a platform to grow. For many, cannabis played a similar role, offering solace and inspiration during difficult times.

Celebrating the Connection at ConBud

At ConBud, we’re proud to honor the shared legacy of graffiti and cannabis in the LES. Here’s how we’re celebrating this connection:

• Art Collaborations: We’re partnering with local graffiti artists to create murals that celebrate cannabis culture and the LES’s artistic heritage.
• Community Events: Our dispensary is more than just a store—it’s a gathering place. We host events that bring together artists, cannabis enthusiasts, and community members to celebrate creativity and connection.
• Education and Advocacy: By sharing stories like those of Mario Ramos and the artists he supported, we’re highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the graffiti and cannabis movements, fostering understanding and appreciation for their contributions.

Explore the LES Through a New Lens

The next time you walk through the LES, take a moment to admire the graffiti that adorns its walls. Each tag, mural, and piece of art is a testament to the neighborhood’s resilience and creativity. And if you’re inspired to explore the world through a more creative lens, visit ConBud to discover cannabis products that complement your journey.

Together, let’s celebrate the vibrant culture of the LES—one mural, one story, and one strain at a time.