Graffiti is an art form

Graffiti is art. Graffiti goes beyond just art. Graffiti comments on current political events using traditional artistic methods to create thought-provoking commentary. Graffiti has gone from simple tagging to a powerful medium, often parodying contemporary issues. Graffiti addresses social issues a community is facing. Graffiti sends a message to the community it is located. It is trying to make the members of the community think.

Graffiti makes a statement on current events. “Graffiti has always been somewhat political, but it has come a long way from simply tagging one’s name to parodying world leaders to make a statement.” Graffiti as Art Graffiti serves as a voice for communities often facing social and political issues. People understand that “When an area has extensive graffiti, people tend to view it as a ‘bad neighborhood.'” so it is important for property values that laws are followed (Graffiti as Vandalism). It is these neighborhoods that need this message contained in graffiti. There are usually political issues that need addressing and graffiti is addressing these issues.

Labeling graffiti as vandalism does not negate the artistic value it has. “Although its artistic merits can’t be denied, graffiti is still in fact a form of vandalism.” Graffiti as Vandalism Labeling graffiti as a crime does not mean it lacks artistic value. For example, many books that are considered great and historical are banned from public libraries. This does not mean they are no longer books. Graffiti is the same. The medium of graffiti or labeling it vandalism does not mean it is not art.

“Wildstyle changes with each artist’s interpretation of the alphabet, but it also relies on the use of primary colors, fading, foreground and background, and the like to create these letters” (Graffiti as Art) Graffiti shares the same traits as some of the greatest arts contain in museums. The illegality of graffiti does not negate its artistic value.

Graffiti, although it might be vandalism, is an art form that uses traditional artistic methods to deliver a powerful message to its communities. Being in neighbors that have social and political issues, graffiti engages the community to address these issues. Graffiti is a powerful form of art.

“Spray Paint Can” by mvfti is licensed under CC BY 2.0.