Dume

I write Dume (NSF, RDS, LB) Im originally from Baltimore, MD but after traveling the US for some years I landed in Philly, PA and have been here since 2015.
I caught the graff bug back in 2004 and messed around with a few names until I landed on Dume probably around 2006.
When I was coming up in Baltimore there was so much style and consistency that it was hard NOT to become enamored with it. So many people have played a role in the evolution of my style since I started, but growing up, there were 2 writers I idolized more than any others…Daver (PA) for his skill and vast array of styles and Apes (FCR, KOS) who bombed like NO OTHER! His heaven spots were insane! And he was actually from Milwaukee, originally. These were just two of MANY talented people crushing Baltimore. Because of specific routes I took through the city and it’s highways these were the two who influenced me the most.
After getting connected more with other writers I was given the opportunity to learn first hand from alot of people who’s work I had been following closely. People like Mask (rip) Meca, Shaken, Soviet, Necs, Vandel (rip) Dusk, Curve, T.sek and Arek, as well as countless others. I definitely take in a little bit each time I paint with someone new. But I came up in Baltimore. The most inspiration came from the people who learned along side me…people like Vose, Scum, Mybad (rip), Derk, and Cedar. I owe most of my courage and early inspirations to those closest to me at the time.
But now I’m in Philly, a city SO rich in graffiti culture, with so many writers that it is a MOTHERFUCKER even getting recognized at all. There are alot of real talented and motivated dudes that hold shit down out here…I’m in my 30s now, and like everyone else, go through life shit. I’ve found that the writers I’ve met out here have done more than influence my style but inspire me to keep pushing in every way! Guys like Korea, Cola and Pynez, my man Bread and most of all my son. He’ll be a Lil King one day, trust me!
Years ago I was hopping around the country and trying to leave my mark. But I’m planted in Philly now with no prospect of leaving any time soon… The friends that I’ve made, the family that I’ve gained here have been here to help in more ways than words can explain. Through all the crazy shit in life it was graffiti and the people that make up it’s culture who were always there…