I Would Die 4 U from the collection of Arts@MSP

I Would Die 4 U, 2017

Acrylic Aerosol on Canvas

Location: MSP Terminal 1, Tram East Platform (pre-security)

MSP Terminal 1, LRT Platform, Tram Level

Prince Rogers Nelson (June 7, 1958 – April 21, 2016), known by the mononym Prince, was an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, performer, record producer, and actor. Over the course of his decades-long career, he developed a devoted fan base and inspired millions across the globe. Bloomington, Minnesota based graffiti-writer and muralist Rock ‘CYFI’ Martinez is one of those fans.

"I respect the dedication Prince had to his art," says Martinez, "and his mastery over how it was produced and distributed."

This work commemorates the late artist and his hit single, I Would Die 4 U, off the 1984 album Purple Rain. Paying homage to the Purple One’s distinct visual aesthetic, Martinez depicts Prince bare-chested with a cross hanging from his neck – a nod to the artist’s relationship with faith and spirituality. The background vibrates with blues-inspired tones and repeating patterns, a metaphor for the song’s structure and lyrical styling. The iconic 'Love Symbol #2' glimmers in the drop shadow of Prince's body, standing as a testament to his battle for ownership over his music.

Originally commissioned by the Weisman Art Museum for their exhibit Prince from Minneapolis, this mural traveled with the exhibit to the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle before returning to the Twin Cities.

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