This past weekend (Dec 5 + 6), NTWRK, the video commerce platform that has become the go-to source for shopping and inspiration among Millennials and Gen Z, teamed up with Roger Gastman and BEYOND THE STREETS (BTS) to present the first-ever virtual edition of the renowned traveling art fair. Featuring distinguished artists including Action Bronson, Shantell Martin, Shepard Fairey and DABSMYLA, the festival was a tremendous victory for both NTWRK and BTS with over 250,000 virtual attendees. The jam-packed two day affair is a testament to NTWRK’s continued history of pushing the envelope in e-commerce and livestream shopping. 

More via amNY New York Metro’s Cover Story on BEYOND THE STREETS: https://www.amny.com/things-to-do/shepard-fairey-street-art-obama/ 

BTS was curated by author and graffiti historian Roger Gastman with art direction from Felipe Pantone. NTWRK’s digital festival celebrating culture and design, BTS upended expectations with a lineup of 100+ artists, merchandise drops, brand collaborations and thought-provoking discussions and panels. The art fair followed on the heels of Transfer, NTWRK’s inaugural streetwear festival that took place this past August. 

“Being able to pull off an event this year with this many artists and so much support was incredible,” says Roger Gastman. “Doing it on a global scale made it even more special. No avatars, no dress up, viewing rooms or gimmicks - just fast paced real life content to keep you hooked.”

Watch a preview of the festival on Spectrum LA: https://spectrumnews1.com/ca/la-west/entertainment/2020/12/04/biggest-street-art-show-in-l-a--goes-virtual

Since its inception in 2018, arts education has been a focal point of BTS. With this principle ringing truer than ever as crucial arts programs face lackluster funding and support, BTS’ digital programming gave festival attendees around the globe a unique academia-via-entertainment experience through exclusive access to artists’ studios, conversations with industry insiders and a drawing master class. 

A portion of the proceeds raised at BTS will go toward a number of arts-related charities. This includes all sales from the Chroma Book, a coloring book bundle complete with features from over 30 artists and a set of BTS colored pencils, which will go toward Free Arts NYC, a non-profit that serves and empowers underserved youth through arts and mentoring programs to develop their creativity, confidence and skills to succeed. 

Here are some noteworthy items from BEYOND THE STREETS:

Felipe Pantone x J Balvin, Silk Collection:

Limited Edition collection of robe, eyemask, pajama shirt, pajama pants and plates with Pantone’s SUBTRACTIVE VARIABILITY series embroidered with J Balvin’s icons.