Steve Grody, author of a new illustrated book “Graffiti L.A.”, refers to the spray-can creations on dilapidated walls as “buried treasures.” Others see acts of vandalism.
Grody’s “treasures” are gaining momentum in the art world. According to artprice.com, the auction house Artcurial will sell works by American and French graffiti artists for as much as 20,000 euros ($26,000).
The question remains: is graffiti art or vandalism? Send us your thoughts.
Photo: A work by graffiti artist “Mandoe” in undated publicity photo released to Reuters May 29, 2007.
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4 comments so far
As long as taggers have permission to do what they are doing than I see no problems. If they do no have permission it’s destruction of property by art. But if they have permission it’s just art.
- Posted by EricI believe that art should be appreciated in all its forms…if done tastefully. Ast on the sides of buildings or public places have their place, whereas tagging or strictly defacing another fine piece of artwork is undesirable. I will hire an individual to paint the insides of my shop in such a way when I start my business venture simply because the work is refreshing, original, and natural. There’s nothing forced about it, and it comes oftentimes from ‘untrained’ individuals. More business owners should embrace this form of artwork as their own, and more art enthusiasts should consider purchasing said artwork in varioius scales. (Originals, prints, etc.)
- Posted by NealWhen its on my house, I want to beat the crap out of someone. When I see it on the free way I think to my self, these kids are really retarded, but when you see a really nice piece of art on an abandoned building that actually has a meaning; it could be really eye appealing. But mostly these taggers are ruining peoples property, and id love to spray paint each and every one of the little scum.
- Posted by jamesLocal governments should absolutely promote art in public places. The only issue with the more “urban” forms that frequently grace the outside walls of convenience stores stems from their support of local gangs or other undersirable themes. Embracing the taggers artistic inclinations will certainly lead to better things than chastising them for working to express themselves; althought we must be certain that expression is constructive.
- Posted by Geoff