Every city has some type of graffiti on walls and buildings. Some are beautiful works of art, and some look like simple child’s play. I really got into graffiti after watching a documentary called “Exit through the gift shop.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0b90YppquE This documentary opened my eyes to this underground art world. Some of the artists use it to make several different types of political statements. Although this documentary was supposed to be about the elusive Banksy, from Britain, the videographer turned out to be a more interesting subject. Anyway, that’s not what I want tot get into. I found some art from while in Boston, from Shepard Fairy, you make know of him due to some lawsuits related to this artists rendition of Obama, and the photograph he sampled and adjusted for a Rolling Stone cover.
• Image of OBEY by Shepard Fairy. Winter and Tremont, Boston MA His art called OBEY is known across the country depicting the face of famous wrestler Andre the Giant. There’s a good section in the movie about more of his works, including this one.I enjoy seeing these works of art now that I know more about who created them and why. Only after watching this film, I step back and look at the message they are trying to relay. And I enjoy the art much more.
• Below is another image from Banksy in Boston’s China Tow.
• Below is another image from Banksy in Boston’s China Tow. The majority of the art I see, (especially in Oneonta) I think is just vandalism, and people trying to make their name for a lasting type of “fame”. Example of what I consider just nonsense, would be all the junk Banksys art “follow your dreams” above.
Hey John,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with your idea on vandalism being a form of lasting recognition. When I go to work every day I see graffiti all over buildings and train paths. I wonder if the people who created these ‘tag names’ and decided to spray-paint it on a wall thought that when they were older it would still be there for all to see.
I can understand art and expression, as long as you’re not defacing public property.
The “Follow your dreams: CANCELLED” image is priceless!
Chris
Graffiti being art or vandalism is interesting to think about. I think in most cases, it's vandalism. However, I like it when (even though it might still be illegal) graffiti actually improves the look of a building or space.
ReplyDelete-Kate
The art vs. vandalism debate is a strong one, of which many artists are rather passionate if you ask them. What I find as vandalism may well be considered art by another viewer. I am not sure a single definition will make anyone happy.
ReplyDeleteThis is an interesting question to think about. Even in the tiny village I live in you see graffiti everywhere. The stuff I see locally is not very artistic, usually tag names spray painted on the side of an old building or bridge. No designs, color, or thought! I agree with Kate above- even though graffiti on any public property is technically illegal, if it makes the building or space look better I think you can call that art.
ReplyDelete