Behind the Lens at Sotheby’s New York Geek Week Remixed

An incredible night that paid perfect tribute to 50 fantastic years of hip-hop.

The genre was born in the Bronx and now has conquered the world with the elements of DJ’ing, emceeing, break dancing, graffiti, and spoken word. Artisans have always been instrumental in the creation of this magical beat. From the stages to the sounds, there is one man who has had an epic presence that carries work worthy of royalty. The crowning achievements of primary celebrity photographer Johnny Nuñez spectacularly honor the traditions of hip-hop. Behind the lens, he shines an everlasting life of glory. He is instrumental to the DNA that makes up the dynasty.

On July 19, Nuñez’s fantastic body of work was touted during Geek Week Remixed featuring The Finisher Mister Cee at landmark Sotheby’s New York. A stellar turnout for the show proved that this is a town that will always party for the right reasons.

The likes of all the biggest names in New York City and beyond came out to celebrate the milestone event that showcased work for auction by Núñez and other artisans. From Nas to Christian Slater, the room dazzled with old-school Big Apple energy that is blissfully undeniable. They came to listen to music and gathered around stunning mixed media pieces such as Danny Cortes’ “The Block” featuring FRIDGE, Mike See, and Edward Rivera, who were also in attendance. Every piece in the room was meant to make nostalgia not only cool–such as a ring commissioned by Tupac–it was meant to ignite the senses to appreciate the lyrical power of what the hip-hop movement means to the masses.

It unites harmoniously, just like how Nuñez can bring people together through his commanding lens. Something inextricably linked the famous photographer, who is as famous as his famous friends, to the notables of the world, but he is never one to forget the plight of other people in the community trying to reach new heights. He elevates those who surround him, and he perpetually does it with a smile. It was that captivating grin he flashed in front of family and friends that served as a reminder to all that this was the event to be at. The biggest stars in the world love him for good reason. Believe the hype – Nuñez, is a true legend in the industry.

Featured work included:

“Nas”, New York, 2013, printed 2023

Chromogenic print, image 30⅜ by 22½ in. (76.51 x 57.15 cm.), sheet, 31⅛ by 23¼ in. (79.05 x 59.05 cm.). Signed in black marker at lower right on image “Johnny Nuñez” and in black marker and lower left on sheet “NYC Johnny Nuñez” and “NAS.”