Many things in life are most certainly non-standard. However, just because some of these things don’t follow the convention doesn’t mean that they are substandard. A classic example of an element that isn’t given the regard that it’s due because it isn’t “normal,” even today, is graffiti art. There are several factors that make this type of art truly worthy of celebration, and I’ll be going into some of these variables today.
The Most Important Things That Make Graffiti Art Unique
When many people think of graffiti, one of the first things that come to their mind is public nuisance. Yet, there is so much more to the drawings that you see plastered on the walls as you drive to the mall or the rec center. A few of these include:
#1 – Graffiti is One of the Purest Forms of Art
Perhaps the biggest reason that graffiti gets a bad rep to this day is because it started as little more than illegal activity and vandalism. However, this art form has evolved significantly over the years to become something much more.
Today, an element of order has been carved out of the chaos that is modern graffiti art, such that you can start to clearly see the unique style and technique that go into most of these paintings now. As I said before, graffiti doesn’t play by the normal rules, and this applies to this day. However, that’s a part of the beauty of this type of art as it trades normal canvasses for the urban space and delights everyday people with its beauty in the process.
#2 – Graffiti Sets a Unique Tone in Urban Spaces
Considering how we are constantly pushing for more living and livable areas, it can be surprising just how much barren urban space there is out there right now. But graffiti art doesn’t leave these places without imbuing them with vibrancy, color, and life. As an artist myself, I can’t count how many times I’ve seen graffiti convert something that was supposedly bland and ordinary into immense beauty.
On a related note, graffiti has become a symbol of community pride in many areas, giving these regions a unique identity that they mightn’t have had otherwise. Just ask around; many locals will tell you that the murals and graffiti that grace their area are a big part of what makes it feel like home.
#3 – Graffiti Has Become a Powerful Source of Social Impact
Almost from the very moment it was created, graffiti has been used as a medium for addressing various social challenges. It was (and in many ways, remains) a great way for marginalized groups to get their thoughts and opinions out in the open space. Be it racism or inequality, this art form presented a subtle yet clear way of getting different types of messages across. While it was ignored at first, the sentiments that it echoes get a lot more attention now.
Bottom Line
Graffiti can be a bit of an acquired taste for some people. This is perfectly understandable. However, you only need to look at it closely to see the massive potential it has to connect us as a species and beautify our world profoundly.
