The Notorious IBE

The Notorious IBE (International Breakdance Event) took place Septeber 11-13 in Heerlen, Netherlands. The layout
of the town was perfect for the festival with venues situated around a spacious market square. The centerpiece was
the Schunck or Glaspaleis (Glass Palace), a very modern looking building that was actually erected in 1935. This year
Schunck paired with the IBE to present a comprehensive art exhibition called d’RAW featuring graffiti and street artists. 
A highlight for me was meeting Harald Naegeli, a Swiss artist who was forced to flee to Germany after being arrested for
spraying graffiti in the 70’s. His art is finally being recognized.

Although everything was within easy walking distance, there were so many battles, cyphers, workshops, panels, meetings
and events scheduled at overlapping times that it was impossible to see everything. I chose to watch the 4 on 4 B-Girl crew
battle (Japan girlz killed it!), the kids’ battle (won by Prodigy) and Ken Swift & Seven Gems’ workshop. Unfortunately I couldn’t
stay for Sunday’s huge All Battles All because I was flying to Bogota for a street art festival—will post those photos soon but
meanwhile here’s a selection from the IBE.