Based on the original Chicago gang research website, Compliments of Chicagohoodz analyzes the unique visual language and graphics of the city's street gangs, drawing upon decades of research, interviews, documentation and collecting of memorabilia, and featuring commentary from gang members (including artists Robert N. Taylor and Jack Walls). The now bygone practice of creating and distributing gang business (“compliment”) cards was popular in Chicago for over 50 years. These displayed the organization and branch; its active and fallen members; and rivalries. This collection deciphers their hieroglyphics (ranging from early stock images to elaborate hand-drawn designs), touches upon the gang's history, their neighborhoods, and era in which the card was made. It tells the stories behind the names, bringing the reader closer to the individuals who created, owned and added their personal touches to the card as it passed from hand to hand. “Jinx's” photographic documentation of gang graffiti and members captures a lost era of large scale full color promotional murals, and an extraordinary style distinct within street art. The book explores other forms of representation including modified varsity-style sweaters, patches and drawings. Through these images, Chicagohoodz traces the development and consolidation of the neighborhood street organization: from doo wop to hip hop, from greasers to gangster rap; from dances, bands and softball teams, to racketeering, narcotics trafficking and domestic terror. This story of ethnic warfare, multi-racial coalitions and shifting alliances has been ignored by many who wish the culture didn’t exist, but is a history of the city nonetheless.
✔ Author(s): James "Jinx" O'Connor,Damen "Mr. C" Corrado
✔ Title: Compliments of Chicagohoodz: Chicago Street Gang Art & Culture
✔ Rating : 4.8 out of 5 base on (196 reviews)
✔ ISBN-10: 1627310657
✔ ISBN-13: 9781627310659
✔ Language: English
✔ Format ebook: PDF, EPUB, Kindle, Audio, HTML and MOBI
✔ Device compatibles: Android, iOS, PC and Amazon Kindle
Readers' opinions about Compliments of Chicagohoodz by James "Jinx" O'Connor
Melody Blake
This book completely captured my heart. The characters were so relatable, and their journeys resonated deeply with me. The writing was poetic and powerful, leaving me with a sense of awe. I'm grateful to have experienced this literary gem.
Virginia Savage
The rich historical context of the book added a layer of depth that I found fascinating. It was like stepping back in time and experiencing history firsthand.
Tasha Cobbett
The themes of resilience and hope resonated deeply with me. This book taught me valuable life lessons that I'll carry with me for years to come.
