Think BIG
This concept was inspired by classical composer Carlos Simon’s masterpiece, “Graffiti.” A selection of orchestral music named after and inspired by Hip-Hop's form of artistic expression is such a full circle moment. Ironically, just as recent as the 1990’s Hip-Hop was prohibited, demonized and even protested on a global level. After being proud and perplexed by the sheet music to Graffiti a notorious line popped in my head from one of the most revered rappers of all time, Biggie. In a masterfully crafted verse he celebrates and reflects on the process and pain it took for Hip-Hop to evolve from a block party into a global culture. My idea was to express that same sentiment while highlighting the parallel and juxtaposition between classical music and hip-hop. “You never thought that Hip-Hop would take it this far”.
Northwest Sinfonietta
Graffiti was performed by the Northwest Sinfonietta at the historic Pantages Theater in Tacoma, WA. Founded in 1991 by harpsichordist Kathryn Habedank and conductor Christophe Chagnard, the Northwest Sinfonietta has become the premier professional chamber orchestra of the Puget Sound region. With 35 musicians, the ensemble embodies the intimacy of chamber music while carrying the power and sweep of a full symphony orchestra, creating an experience that is both refined and electrifying.
That evening’s program featured the accomplished conductor, pianist, and educator Jeffery Meyer, alongside the renowned pianist Joel Fan, whose career includes performances of more than 40 concertos with orchestras across the globe. I was honored to be invited to contribute visually to this moment, designing and screen printing a commemorative piece of merchandise by hand and styling the entire Sinfonietta for the concert. The design, shown in photo 2, pays homage to the orchestra’s history by honoring each of the 35 instruments played by its musicians. The graphic reads “Northwest Sinfonietta Since 1991,” a statement of legacy, artistry, and longevity.
A special acknowledgment goes to Executive Director Karin Choo, whose vision and leadership have been instrumental in carrying the Sinfonietta into this new chapter. Her commitment to innovation while honoring tradition is what makes collaborations like this possible. Karin’s ability to blend community, creativity, and excellence has kept the Sinfonietta not only thriving but also evolving in ways that inspire both artists and audiences. It was a privilege to add my creative voice to a program that she helped bring to life with such care and intention.
“Think BIG” the film
When Spaceworks and Northwest Sinfonietta invited me to create a mural for their performance of Graffiti by Carlos Simon, they originally wanted to simply document the painting process. I saw something bigger. Graffiti is not just paint on a wall. It is one of the core pillars of Hip Hop, born from community, resilience, and creative expression.
So the I expanded the vision and brought in the brilliant artist Lourdes Jackson to help with the painting portion of the mural. But I wanted to build something much larger than a mural. I invited youth artists, break dancers, rappers, business owners, and community members to step into the frame. The film became a living portrait of Hip Hop’s foundation: art, music, dance, and voice woven together on screen as the orchestra performed.
What started as a commission transformed into a cultural dialogue, a celebration of Tacoma, and an exploration of Hip Hop’s lasting power. Enjoy my directoral debut “Think BIG”
Check out the “Think BIG” film directed by Neon Dion featuring muralist Lourdes Jackson, Umi Wagoner, Oliver Doriss and many notable artists and community contributors.
Photo Gallery
