2.3 Emergence of street art (1980s-present)

Street art emerged in the 1980s, blending pop art, punk, and DIY culture. It uses diverse techniques like stencils and wheat pasting to convey social messages, differing from traditional graffiti's focus on territorial marking and recognition.

Pioneering artists like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat helped legitimize street art. Technology and social media have boosted its acceptance, enabling global sharing and collaboration. Street art now influences mainstream culture through festivals and brand partnerships.

The Emergence of Street Art (1980s-Present)

Definition and distinctions of street art

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• Street art encompasses a wide range of techniques, such as:
  • Stencils create repeated images by spraying paint through a cut-out template (Banksy)
  • Wheat pasting involves adhering paper-based art to walls using a wheat flour mixture
  • Stickers are pre-designed artworks that can be quickly and easily applied to various surfaces
  • Murals are large-scale paintings directly on walls, often commissioned or community-driven
• Street art often uses a variety of materials beyond traditional spray paint, including acrylic paint, markers, and mixed media to create diverse visual effects
• Street art aims to engage with the public by conveying social, political, or personal messages, sparking dialogue and reflection (Shepard Fairey's "Obey" series)
• Traditional graffiti primarily relies on spray paint and markers as tools for creating letter-based designs
  • Tags are stylized signatures used to mark territory or gain recognition
  • Throw-ups are quickly executed bubble-letter designs
  • Pieces are elaborate, colorful letterforms that showcase the artist's skill
• Traditional graffiti often focuses on territorial marking and gaining recognition within the graffiti community, prioritizing style and technique over broader public engagement

Emergence factors of street art movement

• Pop art influence:
  • Street artists incorporate popular imagery and icons into their work, drawing from mass media and consumer culture (Keith Haring's dancing figures)
  • Use of bright colors and bold lines in street art is reminiscent of pop artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein
• Punk influence:
  • Street art embodies an anti-establishment and rebellious attitude, challenging societal norms and authority
  • The DIY ethos of punk encourages artists to create their own opportunities and spaces for expression
• DIY culture:
  • Street art emphasizes self-reliance and alternative means of production and distribution, bypassing traditional art world gatekeepers
  • Utilization of affordable and accessible materials, such as stickers, posters, and found objects, allows for greater participation and experimentation (Shepard Fairey's "Andre the Giant Has a Posse" sticker campaign)

Impact and Globalization of Street Art

Pioneering artists and legitimization

• Keith Haring:
  • Developed a distinctive style featuring bold lines, vibrant colors, and simplified figures, making his work instantly recognizable (Radiant Baby, Barking Dog)
  • Addressed social issues through his art, such as AIDS awareness and the crack cocaine epidemic, using public spaces to reach a wide audience
  • Collaborated with mainstream brands and institutions, such as Swatch and the Pop Shop, bridging the gap between street art and fine art
• Jean-Michel Basquiat:
  • Began as a graffiti artist under the pseudonym "SAMO," gaining attention for his poetic and cryptic messages on the streets of New York City
  • Incorporated elements of neo-expressionism and primitive art in his work, creating a unique visual language that blended text, symbols, and figures (Crown motif)
  • Achieved significant recognition in the fine art world, with solo exhibitions and high-profile collaborations, paving the way for other street artists to cross over into mainstream success
• Shepard Fairey:
  • Created the iconic "Obey Giant" campaign, featuring the stylized face of wrestler Andre the Giant, which became a global phenomenon
  • Known for his politically charged works, such as the "Hope" poster for Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign, demonstrating the power of street art in shaping public opinion
  • Founded the streetwear brand "Obey Clothing," showcasing the commercial potential of street art and blurring the lines between art, fashion, and activism

Technology's role in street art acceptance

• Technology:
  • Advancements in digital tools and software, such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, have enabled artists to create and manipulate designs more efficiently before executing them on the streets
  • The accessibility of high-quality cameras and drones has facilitated the documentation and sharing of street art, allowing works to reach a broader audience beyond their physical locations (Google Street Art Project)
• Social media:
  • Platforms like Instagram and Facebook have allowed artists to showcase their work to a global audience, bypassing traditional art world barriers
  • Social media has enabled collaboration and the exchange of ideas among artists from different regions, fostering a sense of community and shared inspiration (Mural festivals and online forums)
• Globalization:
  • Increased travel and cultural exchange have exposed people to street art from various parts of the world, broadening appreciation and understanding of the movement
  • International festivals and exhibitions, such as Miami's Art Basel and the Wynwood Walls, have provided platforms for street artists to gain recognition and legitimacy on a global stage
  • Commissioned works and brand collaborations have further integrated street art into mainstream culture and commerce, with artists working with major companies like Nike and Coca-Cola to create limited-edition products and campaigns