eyesBluepurple by Bane Seik.

Source: NY Daily News

A New York artist who is well-known in the street art community had the hand he draws with amputated Dec. 31st after it was injured on his “day job” with the city’s Sanitation Department.

Anthony Riaza’s left hand was crushed by the front tires of a collection truck after he fell from the cab. The 43-year-old, who is known in the art world as Bane Seik, had his hand amputated at the wrist in emergency surgery at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital.

Seik said he began as a graffiti artist and then began working in different media “to capture the soul in color and whimsy."  He works in acrylic, water color, markers, pen and ink.

From his website:

“With New York City as his canvas, and street art and the artists of the Village as his inspiration, Bane's work can be edgy but often is a more emotional exploration of the soul as noted in his many works reflecting the eyes as windows of the soul. 

From tears of sadness and frustration to the electric hair patterns of his many faces, Bane's work is a favorite among people all over the world who have suffered and risen above their circumstances to realize we are all the same -  beautiful creations of whimsy.”

The 43-year-old Riaza had been employed by the Sanitation Department for 21 years. The department said in a statement that Riaza fell as the vehicle was moving or preparing to move, landing in the path of its front wheels. An investigation into the accident is underway.