MEMPHIS, TN.- What happens when graffiti street art moves inside the walls of a traditional fine art museum? Find out at the Brooks 1st Wednesday celebration on the first of June. Graffiti artists Jon Lee and Adam Smith are creating six large-scale canvases using the materials and methods of urban street art. The "Off the Wall" exhibition attempts to bridge the gap between urban-based street art and the fine arts world. The artists will give a gallery talk at 6:15 p.m. in the museum's education gallery.

"Off the Wall" is being presented as part of the museum's ongoing series, Brooks Introduces, a program designed to showcase the work of young artists who are either currently in art school or recently graduated. Artist Jon Lee states, "Showing our art in a formal setting helps to break down the stereotypes of graffiti and graffiti artists."

The evening celebration also includes live music by Free Sol, one of the most eclectic and original bands in the region and winner of the 2003 Mid-South Grammy Showcase. With a sound rooted in hip-hop, Free Sol masterfully blends elements of jazz, funk, rock, and soul. In addition, New Ballet Ensemble will be collaborating with Graffiti Playground in a high-energy dance performance featuring urban street moves on the plaza of the museum.