Graffiti is a unique and expressive form of art that has been around for decades. It allows artists to make bold statements and leave their mark on the world in a way that is both creative and thought-provoking. One of the most fascinating aspects of graffiti is the variety of styles that artists use to create their work. In this article, we'll explore some of the different styles of graffiti and the characteristics that make each one unique.
Tagging
Tagging is the most basic form of graffiti and is often seen as the starting point for many graffiti artists. A tag is a stylized signature or nickname that an artist uses to identify themselves. Tags are often created using a marker or spray paint and are typically placed on walls, buildings, and other public spaces.¨
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| Photo by Paolo Nicolello |
Throw-ups
Throw-ups are larger and more complex than tags, and typically involve the use of two or three colors. They are created by quickly applying a few layers of paint or markers to a surface to create a basic outline. This is then filled in with color, and sometimes outlined again to create a finished piece. Throw-ups are often used as a way for artists to quickly mark their territory in high-traffic areas.
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| Photo by Danny Burke |
Blockbuster
Blockbusters are large-scale pieces that are typically created on the sides of buildings or other large surfaces. They are characterized by their bold, blocky letters, and are often filled in with bright colors. Blockbusters are designed to be visible from a distance, and are often created in high-traffic areas to maximize their impact.
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| Anarchosyn, CC BY-SA 2.0 Wikimedia Commons |
Wildstyle
Wildstyle is a complex and intricate style of graffiti that is often used by more experienced artists. It involves the use of interlocking letters, arrows, and other decorative elements to create a complex, stylized piece. Wildstyle is often difficult to read, and is designed to be more of a visual statement than a written one.
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| Photo by billow926 |
Stencil
Stencil graffiti involves the use of stencils to create a repetitive image or pattern. The stencil is placed over the surface to be painted, and paint or spray paint is applied to create the image. Stencil graffiti can be created quickly and easily, and is often used to create political or social messages.
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| Photo by Andrea De Santis |
Poster
Poster graffiti involves the use of posters or stickers to create a statement or message. These posters are often created using a computer or other digital media, and are printed out and placed in public spaces. Poster graffiti can be used to promote events or causes, or to make a political or social statement.
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| Photo by Malcolm Lightbody |
Bubble letters
Bubble letters are rounded, cartoon-like letters that are often filled in with bright colors. This style is popular with graffiti artists who want to create a playful and whimsical look.
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| Photo by Artem Darkov |
3D
3D graffiti involves the use of shading and perspective to create the illusion of three-dimensional space. This style is often used by experienced artists who want to create a dynamic and realistic look.
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| Photo by Alex Quezada |
Calligraffiti
Calligraffiti is a fusion of graffiti and calligraphy, and involves the use of elegant, flowing letters that are often created with a brush or marker. This style is popular with artists who want to create a more refined and artistic look.
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| Dhiyaroslan, CC BY-SA 4.0 ¨ via Wikimedia Commons |
Mural
A mural is a large-scale graffiti piece that covers an entire wall or building. Murals are often created by teams of artists, and can take days or even weeks to complete. This style is popular with artists who want to make a bold and lasting statement in their community.
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| Photo by Paolo Bendandi |
Etching
Etching is a style of graffiti that involves the use of acid or other corrosive substances to create an image or message on a surface. This style is often used to create a more permanent and lasting impression, and can be found on glass, metal, or other smooth surfaces.
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| Ostendfaxpost, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons |
Graffiti Pixel art
Graffiti Pixel art involves the use of small, square pixels to create images and messages. This style is often used to create video game-inspired graffiti, and can be found on walls, sidewalks, and other surfaces.
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| Photo by Duncan Kidd |
Reverse graffiti
Reverse graffiti involves the removal of dirt, grime, or other substances from a surface to create an image or message. This style is often used by artists who want to create a temporary and environmentally-friendly form of graffiti.
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| Dr Kralle, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons |
Sticker bombing
Sticker bombing involves the use of stickers or decals to create a pattern or message on a surface. This style is often used by street artists who want to make a quick and easy statement, and can be found on walls, street signs, and other surfaces.
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| Photo by Jon Tyson |
Callout
A callout is a style of graffiti that involves the use of arrows or lines to draw attention to a specific message or image. This style is often used to highlight a political or social issue, and can be found on walls, billboards, and other surfaces.
Abstract
Abstract graffiti involves the use of shapes, colors, and textures to create a non-representational image or pattern. This style is often used by artists who want to create a more experimental and avant-garde form of graffiti.
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| Photo by Luis Vaz |
Characters
Character graffiti involves the use of cartoon or comic book-like characters to create a message or story. This style is often used by graffiti artists who want to create a playful and imaginative look.¨
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| Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante |
Realism
Realism graffiti involves the use of realistic images or scenes to create a powerful and striking message. This style is often used by experienced artists who want to create a more detailed and realistic look.
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| Photo by Rosie Kerr |
Scribble
Scribble graffiti involves the use of fast, scribbled lines to create a chaotic and energetic look. This style is often used by artists who want to create a sense of movement and excitement in their work.
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| Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Prague Graffiti 2019 CC BY-SA 4.0 |
Call-outlines
Call-outlines are similar to callouts, but involve the use of outlines or silhouettes to draw attention to a specific message or image. This style is often used to create a more dramatic and eye-catching effect.
Political
Political graffiti involves the use of slogans, symbols, and images to make a political statement. This style is often used to protest social or political issues, and can be found on walls, buildings, and other public spaces.
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| Matt Brown from London, England, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons |
Light graffiti
Light graffiti involves the use of light sources, such as flashlights or LED lights, to create images or messages on a surface. This style is often used by artists who want to create a unique and eye-catching effect.
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| Jeff Fielitz jfielitz, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons |
Sculptural
Sculptural graffiti involves the use of three-dimensional objects to create a message or image. This style is often used by artists who want to create a more tactile and interactive form of graffiti.
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| Zorro2212, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons |
Glitch Graffit Art
Glitch graffiti art involves the use of digital glitches or errors to create a message or image. This style is often used by artists who want to create a more experimental and modern look.
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| Arantxaserantes, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons |
Augmented reality
Augmented reality graffiti involves the use of digital technology to create interactive or immersive graffiti experiences. This style is often used by artists who want to create a more dynamic and interactive form of graffiti.
These styles of graffiti demonstrate the range of creativity and expression that can be found in this unique and powerful art form. Each style has its own unique characteristics and message, and can be used to create a variety of statements and emotions.
Graffiti is a unique and powerful form of expression that has evolved over time to include a wide variety of styles and techniques. From the basic tags of a novice artist to the intricate designs of a seasoned pro, each style of graffiti has its own unique characteristics and message. By exploring these different styles, we can gain a better appreciation for the art form and the impact it has on our world.