Following the introduction of spray paint in 1949, public vandalism and street art rose to popularity in the 1970’s. But now we ask ourselves, are these pieces legitimate? What is the difference between graffiti and actual art?
By definition, graffiti is “writing or drawings scribbled, scratched, or sprayed illicitly on a wall or other surface in a public place.” These works are sometimes used to display regional ownership by gangs while other times, they’re simply small acts of rebellion against the city’s Public Works department. But when do we get to the part about art? Well, that’s where it gets a bit tricky.
Larger pieces can be commissioned or requested by the City to be painted in public areas. This usually leads to murals such as Angel Wings on the sides of buildings or perhaps even LA’s entire Art District. These pieces would be considered “art,” because their purpose was intentional. But what about the “unintentional” pieces? Do those not count as art as well? Well, yes. They do count as art. Because if a piece is made with the intention to create, the ‘creator’ automatically becomes the ‘artist.’
Art does not need to be ‘intentional’ to be considered real art. Many pieces are actually made by accident! So, when it comes to the bubble letters you see on the drive home, or the beautiful murals of a woman and her children on the walls you see as you walk down the street, remember that all kinds of expression have the potential to be valued and admired.
sources:
https://www.twenty20.com/photos/d002b900-d869-4cae-a902-9f727a8587aa