Michael PeguesMichael Anthony Pegues, a contemporary of Jean-Michel Basquiat, has been a fixture on the downtown scene and a passionate artist for many decades. A survivor and a fighter, Michael never gave up his artistic ambitions and inventions, having been through many trials and tribulations. Last year Michael had a one man show at the FB Gallery. This year, he decided to give back to his community and make a piece of art for the Mulberry Street Library.

You have a very unique style. Where does your fashion inspiration come from?

Pop art is a style that keeps me flowing into fashion. Pop is not trying to be like everyone else. So I'm trying to turn my way into the Universe, implement ideas for iconic dressing.

How long have you been doing art?

Since I was 9 years old. I have found my way in self-creating style, design, drawing, and painting. Anything I can get my hands on!

Children of The WorldHow does NYC inform and inspire your art? 

The city has a lot of inspiration for doing arts and crafts, with so many prolific artists out there. The city shapes who you are, and makes me want to reach for the stars.

Why did you want to show your artwork in the library?

It was an opportunity to express love for people around the world. Art is an important way to represent the history of the world around you. Art is never buried. It's a way of showing and educating for all to see. Welcome to the Art World!

The Children of the World art project will be on display in the Great Room of Mulberry Street Library through August 30th, 2013.

The Magic Rug - children's book illustrated by Michael Pegues