Culture Shift with Mustart | Street Art, Russian Staircases, Graffiti & Jersey City

Send us Fan MailCulture Shift host Duda Penteado sits down with visionary street artist and muralist Mustart for an inspiring conversation on his creative origins, the immigrant journey, and the therapeutic power of abstract art.**Follow Culture Shift:**Linktree: [http://linktr.ee/Culture_Shift_Podcast](http://linktr.ee/Culture_Shift_Podcast)Instagram: @culture_shift_podcastFacebook: @cultureshiftpodcastTikTok: @cultureshift_dudaIn this episode, Mustart reflects on his childhood in Northeast Russia, where he first discovered art through his father's woodworking and formal art schooling. He shares vivid stories of Russia's underground "staircase era," discovering Western punk and hip-hop through bootleg tapes, and his family's journey to the U.S. after hitting the green card lottery in 1999. Mustart also dives deep into his artistic philosophy—discussing why he shifted from political art to therapeutic abstraction, and why spray paint offers the ultimate creative freedom.**This episode covers:*** Growing up in the Russian wilderness and competing in early art school competitions* The "staircase era" of underground youth culture, graffiti, and bootleg music in Russia* Hitting the green card lottery and immigrating to Newark before finding a creative home at NJCU in Jersey City* Why spray painting provides an unmatched release of pressure and fluid motion* Shifting from political commentary to creating therapeutic, abstract pieces that simply help people *feel** Giving back to the local culture through the "Off the Hook Jam," a celebration of graffiti, breakdance, and communityWatch, subscribe, and stay connected for more conversations with creatives, artists, founders, and culture builders.#CultureShift #Mustart #JerseyCity #StreetArt #GraffitiCulture #Podcast #ArtTherapy #NJCU #LibertyArtDistrictSupport the show