Los Angeles, CA – The world of art and graffiti has lost an iconic figure as Tony “TEMPT ONE” Quan passed away at the age of 54. Known for his groundbreaking contributions to graffiti art and his indomitable spirit in the face of adversity, Quan’s legacy will forever remain a source of inspiration.
In 2011, Tony Quan made history by becoming the world’s first graffiti writer to create art using only the movement of his eyes. Despite being diagnosed with ALS, a degenerative nerve disorder, Quan’s determination to continue his artistic journey led to the creation of an iconic graffiti piece. This remarkable feat was showcased at the Pasadena Museum of California Art, capturing the attention of the art world and beyond.
The EyeWriter, an open-source pair of digital eye-tracking glasses, played a pivotal role in Quan’s ability to draw, type, and communicate solely through the movements of his eyes. His groundbreaking project was chronicled in the documentary “Getting Up: The TEMPT ONE Story,” which served as a testament to his unwavering spirit and creativity.
TEMPT ONE’s artistic style was a fusion of Chinese calligraphy precision and the bold aesthetics of classic Los Angeles “cholo” letters. This unique blend set him apart in the world of graffiti art, earning him a revered place among enthusiasts and artists alike.
Born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley, Tony Quan was part of Los Angeles’ celebrated graffiti crews, including STN, K2S, 213K, and FB tagging. He was among the pioneers who first ventured into drawing on freeway overpasses in the city. Quan’s contributions extended to his work for BigTime Graffiti magazine and his role as the subject of the documentary “Getting Up: The TEMPT ONE Story,” released in 2013.
In his formative years, Quan was not only an accomplished graffiti artist but also a drummer in punk bands, contributing to Los Angeles’ DIY punk scene. Bands like The Looters and Butt Acne featured his musical talents.
The news of TEMPT ONE’s passing has led to an outpouring of tributes from fellow crew members and graffiti legends. Across the city’s walls, messages of respect and remembrance have emerged, testifying to the profound impact he had on the graffiti community.
Quan’s relentless fight against ALS was a testament to his “going down swinging” ethos. In a 2015 interview with MUNCHIES, he credited a plant-based diet for contributing to his longevity after being diagnosed with the disease.
His resilience and positive outlook on life were evident as he faced the daily challenges of ALS. Quan often expressed that with ALS, it was about celebrating small victories over time, acknowledging the occasional setbacks but never losing sight of the bigger picture.
In addition to his contributions to graffiti art, Tony Quan shared his love for tacos in a 2015 interview with L.A. TACO. He fondly recalled his favorite tacos from his upbringing, emphasizing his preference for classic, greasy deep-fried tacos.
Tony “TEMPT ONE” Quan leaves behind a legacy of creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of art. His philosophy, “Know the history, respect the culture, and forge your own path,” continues to inspire artists and admirers worldwide. TEMPT ONE’s influence will endure, ensuring that his memory lives on as an enduring source of inspiration and innovation.