Through a tiny door of a flower shop located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan is the world of New York City based artist Awol Erizku. Though slightly disheveled (for which he immediately apologizes) one cannot help but feel like an intruder. His equipment stands ready and waiting for the moment it will used to create works of art that speak to the world of a generation determined to create change.

A native of New York City, Erizku has been creating thought provoking art since his days as an undergrad at the famed Cooper Union. Passion and ambition has allowed him to develop an impressive resume that continues to grow day by day , yet his humble approach to his popular work is what makes him extraordinary. Here we talk about the work of his peers, labels and why hell always come back to New York.

See the original story and interview by Kenny P. Paul at LOOKBOOKS.com.