When many people think of graffiti, the idea of vandalism comes to mind. However, for sophomore Reinaldo (Rey) Jaffet, graffiti has a deeper meaning, serving as a form of art and expression.
“I think of art differently, as a way to express yourself without words,” Rey said. “I know what it means but some people don’t understand it.”
Rey does much of his art in the areas of Wynwood and Midtown, where his pieces adorn the sides of various buildings. Although he does not take any art classes at school, his talent continues to develop through constant practice.
“It started as a hobby,” Rey said of his art. “I kept doing it and got more interested, and it fit me.”
In addition to his passion for art, Rey also enjoys participating in sports. He is a point guard on Palmetto’s basketball team and plays as both safety and corner for the school’s football team. Although he has played basketball since a young age and just recently began playing football, he has quickly come to enjoy the latter sport.
“It keeps you disciplined. I enjoy the contact [of football] and it’s more exciting,” Rey said.
Despite his other commitments, Rey has kept art his top priority, even utilizing it to help the community. Thanks to an opportunity made available to him through his dad’s job, he was able to combine his loves of art and sports while helping others.
“I did some community service with the Heat. I designed some of the logos over the summer,” Rey said. “It was pretty cool because I got to meet all the players and everything.”
Rey has also been able to spread his presence on a more global scale. Being part Puerto Rican himself, Rey travels to the island almost every summer and has done graffiti projects there as well. Rey plans on continuing to create art throughout his life.
“I’d like to go to an art school,” Rey said. “I’d love to go to NYU.”