ODB Mural

Who was the man behind the unforgettable welfare card? Right here, on the corner of Putnam and Franklin in Bed-Stuy, the ODB Mural shouts the answer: Ol’ Dirty Bastard. This larger-than-life portrait, based on his debut album “Return to the 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version,” isn’t just paint on a wall. It’s a portal to the heart and soul of a neighborhood, a testament to a unique artist, and a conversation starter for travelers from across the globe. The ODB Mural captures a pivotal moment in hip-hop history. It reminds us of ODB’s raw talent and unapologetic style. The mural was originally created by Victor Goldfeld, a young New York artist and filmmaker, for a documentary about ODB’s life. He chose this specific location because Bed-Stuy was ODB’s stomping ground, the place where he, RZA, and GZA spent their childhoods. This corner, Putnam and Franklin, was a central point in their lives. Goldfeld’s mural became a beacon for fans worldwide, drawing visitors eager to connect with ODB’s legacy. But the mural’s journey hasn’t been without its bumps. It was defaced in 2007, a blow to both the artist and the community. Goldfeld was heartbroken by the act of vandalism. Though the face was later repainted, the mural was defaced again. The grey smear across ODB’s face stands as a reminder of the challenges in preserving public art. Despite these setbacks, the ODB Mural persists, a vibrant tribute to a complex and influential artist. It continues to draw admirers. People come to take photos and pay their respects, ensuring that ODB’s memory lives on, not just in music, but in the very fabric of Bed-Stuy.