I do not condone illegal activity, ... But I can't stand here today and say that I condone censorship.

[Said the 32-year-old Ecko about his win,] Today is further affirmation that graffiti is without question the most powerful art movement in recent history. This event was conceived as a tribute to the roots of graffiti culture, a time in New York City's history that I chose to believe was worth fighting to preserve. ... when the City asked us to change our chosen art canvas and, as such, tried to censor my First Amendment rights and those of these great artists by attempting to dictate how we express ourselves.

This is an awakening for me, ... I didn't even know who Peter Vallone was.

At its core, this is an event designed to celebrate an art form born from the streets of New York over two decades ago as a means of creative self expression, allowing the public a unique chance to experience the workmanship and skill that go into creating a piece of art fine enough to hang on the walls of any traditional gallery or museum,

We are, as we have for nearly 10 months, continuing our dialogue with the proper authorities to reach a mutually agreed upon means of hosting this event on August 24th as planned, ... I have retained legal counsel who will be vigorously and zealously pursuing my First Amendment interests…

Producing a game that encompasses such originality and innovation has been an incredible experience and we are very excited to unveil Getting Up. This tour is our way to celebrate its launch and say thanks to all of our supporters.