Previously seen mostly on dirty or old city walls or on the subways of New York in the 1970s, graffiti, as it was called, was considered a crime of vandalism. Now, as we’ve all seen, it’s everywhere -- mostly in big, bold colors, some with a political or social message; others used for advertising, while others are simply playful and say nothing at all, (except in the mind of the artist).
Decades after it began, graffiti turned into “street art” often with projects appearing by famous artists such as Andy Warhol, Eduardo Kobra, and Banksy (whose real name is still unknown).
As the saying goes, ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’, so we can make up our own minds --- is it graffiti ...or art?
Decades after it began, graffiti turned into “street art” often with projects appearing by famous artists such as Andy Warhol, Eduardo Kobra, and Banksy (whose real name is still unknown).
As the saying goes, ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’, so we can make up our own minds --- is it graffiti ...or art?
Art.
ReplyDeleteScholars may one day debate the graffiti’s deeper meaning. Some will detect bold statements about society, identity, or the human condition. Others will see a chair positioned just slightly wrong. Both interpretations will be considered valid, provided they are delivered confidently by a UN official, while slightly tilting her or his head and holding a small glass of sparkling water at a gallery opening. Viewers are encouraged to react with a mixture of curiosity, confusion, and cautious admiration. This is art.
ReplyDeleteMany renowned painters today were never recognised while alive, such as Van Gogh, Vermeer, and El Greco. The same may indeed happen to these street artists.
ReplyDelete