Photo Gallery

Michael “BÄST” Polimeni (1970–2021) was a Brooklyn-born artist whose work left a lasting imprint on the worlds of contemporary art, street culture, and fashion. Known for maintaining a semi-anonymous presence throughout his career, BÄST marched to the beat of his own drum from an early age — fiercely independent, deeply creative, and unapologetically original. He saw life through a singular lens and translated that vision into bold, genre-defying works that fused pop art, street collage, and abstract expressionism. His visual language was raw, vibrant, and layered, a reflection of the chaotic energy of New York City itself.In a rare 2012 interview with Vagazine, BÄST remarked, “I’ve never been to one of my openings. I just want people to see my work.” That quote reflects his deep commitment to the art itself, not the spectacle around it.  Over the years, BÄST’s work was exhibited in galleries across New York City and around the world. His influence extended into fashion as well, where he launched his own collections and collaborated with iconic designers such as Marc Jacobs and Agnès B, who recognized his visual voice as both gritty and groundbreaking. Today, the BÄST Estate is dedicated to preserving and reintroducing his work to future generations, ensuring that his singular voice continues to inspire artists, designers, and creative outsiders everywhere.