At first glance, street art and graffiti may seem like interchangeable terms, but there are actually distinct differences between the two art forms. Here you can discover the characteristics and origins of street art and graffiti, as well as their impact on society.
What is Street Art?
Street art is a form of visual art created in public spaces, such as walls, buildings, and sidewalks. It is often commissioned by businesses or organizations, but can also be created by independent artists. Street art is typically more elaborate and aesthetically pleasing than graffiti, and is intended to beautify urban areas.
Street art can take many forms, including murals, installations, and sculptures. It often features political or social messages, and can be a powerful tool for activism and social commentary. Some of the most famous street artists include Banksy, Shepard Fairey, and Keith Haring.
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| Street art in Chance Street, Shoreditch by Marathon, Wikimedia. |
What is Graffiti?
Graffiti, on the other hand, is a form of vandalism that involves writing or drawing on public property without permission. It is often viewed as a nuisance by local authorities, and is punishable by law in many places. Graffiti is typically less polished and more raw than street art, and is intended to be provocative and confrontational.
Graffiti has a long and controversial history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. In modern times, graffiti has been associated with gang culture and other illegal activities. However, some graffiti artists, such as Banksy, have gained worldwide recognition and acclaim for their work.
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| Photo: Andy Gnias, Wikimedia. |
The Impact of Street Art and Graffiti on Society
Despite their differences, both street art and graffiti have had a significant impact on society. Street art has been used to beautify and revitalize urban areas, and can also serve as a means of expressing political and social issues. Graffiti, while often viewed as a nuisance, can also be a form of resistance against oppressive systems and institutions.
However, there are also negative consequences associated with street art and graffiti. Graffiti can contribute to blight and urban decay, and can also create safety hazards. In some cases, street art may be seen as gentrifying or displacing communities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, street art and graffiti may seem similar, but they are two distinct art forms with different origins and intentions. Street art is often commissioned and intended to beautify public spaces, while graffiti is a form of vandalism that can be provocative and confrontational. Both art forms have had a significant impact on society, and their continued existence raises important questions about art, ownership, and public space.
FAQ's
Where does the word "graffiti"come from?
The word "graffiti" comes from the Italian language and was first used in the 1850s to refer to inscriptions or drawings that were scratched or etched onto walls. The word is derived from the Italian word "graffiare", which means "to scratch". In modern usage, the term graffiti has come to refer to any kind of writing or drawing that is made on a public surface, whether it is scratched, etched, painted, or drawn with a marker or spray paint.
When was the term "street art" coined?
The term "street art" is believed to have been coined in the 1980s during the graffiti art boom in New York City. At the time, graffiti was becoming more prevalent and recognized as an art form, and artists began to move beyond simple tags and throw-ups to create more complex and artistic works. As graffiti began to evolve and become more diverse, the term "street art" emerged as a way to describe these new forms of urban art that were being created in public spaces. Today, the term is used to describe a wide range of artistic styles and practices that are created in public spaces, including murals, stencil art, installations, and more.