I think this article could stir an interesting conversation about what graffiti can tell us about a city. I have a feeling people there will be a diverse range of perspectives on this issue.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/19/us/19graffiti.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=graffiti&st=cse
I find it interesting that graffiti so often becomes a symbol of economic strife, as if it marks certain neighborhoods as being less desirable than others. For me, graffiti does exactly the opposite and brings about a certain vibrance that may go undetected otherwise. In particular, it raises the question of what constitutes art? Are graffiti and street art the same thing? Art can be such a powerful community development tool.
ReplyDeleteLiving in Brooklyn, I've seen many neighborhoods, including my own, transform into artistic hubs. Walking around these neighborhoods, you may at first only notice old warehouses and run-down houses, but if you look hard enough, you begin to notice large murals and street art where you would never expect them to be. If not for this kind of graffiti art, people passing by might miss out on the community's rich culture, instead only observing a desolate streetscape.
I <3 graffiti.. the PARK piece above is brilliant. Thank you for posting!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting this! I agree that graffiti (when creative) can be a sign of vibrancy and an interesting tool for social commentary.
ReplyDeleteCheck out this street art in the favelas of Rio:
http://www.woostercollective.com/2008/08/jr_in_the_flavelas_of_rio.html
Also see this exciting work in Tunisia during the Arab Spring:
http://www.woostercollective.com/2011/03/first_look_jr_kicks_of_his_ted_wish_insi.html