Can graffiti be considered art?

Donovan Holcombe, publisher

Graffiti, also known as street art, defines paintings or words written on public places. Some call this form of expression vandalism while others identify it as a form of art. According to the law, graffiti is vandalism. To scribble on another individual’s property without their consent is illegal in the United States. However, some people view graffiti as a form of modern art. Arguments against graffiti is understandable. For one, these “scribbles” make places look dirty and unsafe. This is because much of the public correlate graffiti with gangs. Gangs would use words and symbols to mark their turf and intimidate other rival gangs. Not to mention, huge amounts of tax money are spent on removing graffiti from towns and neighborhoods. With that in mind, instead of using the tax money on improving schools, hospitals, and neighborhoods, tax money is wasted on removing graffiti. Even though graffiti has controversial aspects including gang affiliation and unnecessary loss of tax money, graffiti should be considered a form of art. I asked my friend Anthony if he thinks graffiti should be and art and this is what he had to say, “I feel that graffiti should be considered an art because just like any other piece of artwork. It takes time working on all the different colors. Focus blending the colors right and knowing what your doing. and Patience so in my personal opinion I do think it’s an art.” I Asked my friend micah the same question and he said, “graffiti is an art form because it gives people a way to express what they are feeling and it gives people a chance to share their cultural history.” As with many other arguments, there are exceptions to the inclusion of graffiti into art. Graffiti related to drugs, violence, and gangs are not considered art. It is important to understand the difference between taggers and graffiti artists. Because of their similar methods, many confuse the difference between taggers and graffiti artists. Taggers are usually inexperienced adolescents who scribble on the walls of public/private buildings; however, graffiti artists create a thought out artistic piece. Graffiti is a form of expression.  Unlike the scribbles and marks many people confuse graffiti as, when done properly and with experience, graffiti creates beautiful pieces of art. In fact, certain artists, whom categorize themselves as a graffiti artists, are actually really successful in selling their artworks. In the end, graffiti should be categorized as a form of art for the various reason I went on about above it is not fair to take away someones passion and art skills because a certain group gives it a bad name. If that was the case then why don’t we not use cars anymore because drunk drivers are to dangerous. U see how using that type of logic is unfair for the reasonable and positive graffiti artist? Coney Art Walls | Tats Cru