Meet Shellie Bee of The SideBustin Shop/Megafauna in North Denver

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shellie Bee.

Shellie, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Since moving to Colorado in 2007, I have spent the past few years photographing graffiti and street art of Denver, Colorado. Over the years, I have gained a unique perspective and have been allowed inside access to an underground culture that is rarely seen. I have learned about the daily challenges facing some writers and have started to understand the importance of their artwork. I have watched many writers progress and even start to make a living from their art. I have also witnessed the amazing bond between writers in times of tragedy (which happens way too often in this culture) and the respect for writers that have passed on is undeniable.

I have always considered myself a visual person. I see things that most people pass by every day. I find beauty in urban decay and feel peaceful in abandoned spaces. I was recently asked, “What is your passion?” I stumbled for words because I realized I didn’t even know what that meant. I thought I was supposed say “ophthalmology is my passion” because after all, eye surgery is what I have spent most of my working career doing, But I’ve realized my passion is graffiti and street art and this community of amazing people.

Over time I have built myself a network with nationally and internationally known graffiti artists, businesses and friends and have successfully linked people together. Some say I’m a dot connector.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
When I first started photographing graffiti and then posting online, I received a lot of criticism and backlash from writers because I didn’t understand the deep-rooted history behind it. I didn’t understand how it worked. I didn’t understand about the importance of anonymity for some writers. I didn’t know the consequences of giving up locations or spots. I also didn’t understand why most writers even start doing graffiti. I was viewed as someone who wanted to profit off of their artwork and was even threatened at one point to remove my photos. Over time I learned the history and realized the importance of protecting those who need to and or want to remain anonymous.

We’d love to hear more about your work.
I recently opened a small retail graffiti supply shop in Denver selling the specialized spray paints that writers use. The large gallery space inside my shop is available as well for events and art shows with many amenities and available off-street parking. Anyone can see my photos and find out more information about me on Instagram @shelliebee

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I have a rather large collection of over 30,000 photos and hope to one day be able to use them to help document an urban art movement that has made graffiti and street art more acceptable and mainstream today. I would like to continue with artist referrals for commission work and maybe start managing artists. I have also become involved with a program that helps incarcerated writers and other artists sell their work to help pay their restitution and other bills. Art heals people. Art brings communities together. Art is therapy to every writer I have met, especially during difficult times.

Contact Info:

• Address: SideBustin Shop
  1930 W 41st Ave
  Denver Colorado 80211
• Phone: 720.331.8290
• Email: sidebustinshop@gmail.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/shelliebee

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