BY RICH LOGIS

(Original publication: August 15, 2003)

The watermelon graffiti artist, who's painted the town pink, green and black for months, turned himself into New Rochelle police this past Monday.

It turns out he's 17-year-old Larchmont resident, Alexander Mosley, police said.

The business offer made by a Larchmont art gallery owner made to Mosley, or "Melon," two weeks ago still stands.

"As long as he's cleared to be released, I'd like to help him. I'd like to support him. But I'm not going to beg. He's got to reach out to me," said Stephen Sperduto, owner of Stephen Sperduto Inc. Fine Art and Custom Framing in Larchmont.

Two weeks ago Sperduto, a Harrison resident, made Mosley a public offer to use his gallery and supplies. Sperduto said he likes Mosley's paintings of watermelon slices because of their simplicity and mystery.

A woman named Joy Mosley answered the phone at his residence and offered no comment.

Mosley was charged on a felony criminal mischief count and a misdemeanor making graffiti count. More charges could follow, New Rochelle Capt. Joseph Schaller said.

Schaller would not say if Mosley gave a statement or admitted to making the paintings. He said police are investigating whether Mosley had accomplices.

Mosley is due in City Court Aug. 22. Allegedly, he is responsible for painting a dozen slices on trucks and buildings in New Rochelle, Mamaroneck and the Bronx.

Through conversations with other graffiti artists, police were able to determine the watermelonist's identity, Schaller said.

"We talked to a lot of people," Schaller said.

Sperduto said he didn't want to be seen as an accomplice. Sperduto said he wants the Larchmont man to make art in a legitimate forum and not on the street, where he's defaced others' properties.

Schaller said New Rochelle will work with the Mamaroneck Police Department in the investigation.

Mamaroneck Detective Jerry McCarthy did not return a telephone call.