Operation Under is a clandestine organization that produces artwork in tunnels beneath the city. The group consists of a diverse cast of characters ranging from graffiti artists, painters, writers, explorers, photographers, tattooers, nature enthusiasts and anthropologists. These operations consist of a physical and visual exploration of the world beneath us.
For over seven years Operation Under has been exploring and creating these hidden clusters of underground artwork. Each obscure location is identified by a sequential number, totalling over 117 locations as of 2024. At each of these numbered areas, there is a painting marking the number, and a variety of artwork by members of the crew.
Some of these paintings could last hundreds of years, existing in complete darkness, exposed to absolutely no sunlight, locked away in concrete tombs. Others may be lost to wear and tear from flowing water or erosion from the washed away debris of Los Angeles as it flows through drainage canals. Much of the artwork exists in total secrecy in some surprising locations under the city; beneath famous landmarks, government buildings, parks, and freeways. The secrecy of these locations is fundamental to the ethos of Operation Under. Protection from the elements is as important as protection from vandals, defacers, and other graffiti artists. This culture of tight-lipped mythology protects these mysterious works of art and their creators.
Los Angeles is the home of Operation Under but the group's reach continues to grow. Missions have been taking place abroad and the Operation has connected with like minded groups around the world.
OPERATION UNDER: LIFE UNDERGROUND @ Superchief Gallery, Los Angeles
Opening Party August 3rd, 2024
7±11PM
Exhibition runs from August 3rd - August 25th
Link to RSVP
Special Event on August 24th with Susan Phillips author of 'The City Beneath: A Century of Los Angeles Graffiti' among other distinguished academics on the LA River.