Graffiti

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Graffiti refers to the act of writing words, symbols or graphics on private or public property. Graffiti dates back from Paleolithic times, but it has evolved through time. Graffiti artists use walls, trees rocks or any other surface as canvas to leave messages and express their feelings. Gangs use graffiti to communicate and mark their territories while political activists use it to make statements. In 1960s, graffiti became a form of art and a hobby to some artists. This form of artwork originated in Philadelphia and later migrated to other cities. During that time, it was seen as disrespectful and illegal act by the society, but those behind the graffiti movement saw it as a creative way of expression in an oppressive society. Graffiti art was an invention for people to express their political, social views and feelings (Burners). This research paper investigates the effect of graffiti to both the society and individual artist.
Some of the first graffiti artists include Cornbread, Cool Earl and TAKI 183. Darryl McCray aka Cornbread started graffiti art while he was in prison; he used to write his nickname “Cornbread” all over the prison walls, and he continued with this trend after he was released. Demetrius “TAKI 183” became popular for his unusual tags on 183rd Street subway. When TAKI 183 made the front page in New York Times, tagging spread quickly everywhere in the city and artist would bomb many tags on lampposts, buildings, subway cars or any other surface. Since then, street art has attracted many questions on whether it is a crime or an art (Burners).
Graffiti has not yet been accepted as other forms of artwork such as those found in museum or gallery. This is due to its unconventional presentation on illegal area, and...

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... as disobedience, destruction of property, loitering and other gang-related activities.
In conclusion, graffiti art promotes creativeness and originality and the artistic techniques and form used differentiate from graffiti from graffiti art because it catches the eye due to the patterns, lines and colors used. Graffiti prohibition violates the human right for freedom because graffiti artists use it as a creative way of communication and for self-expression. The intention of graffiti artists to communicate with their audience through their artwork is in line with the role of art to allow people express their ideas and emotions. The only difference between graffiti art and other form of art in museums and gallery is location. The artistic talent of graffiti artists can be harnessed to be used positively and beautify the environment because graffiti will not end soon.

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