🏷️Street Art and Graffiti Unit 5 – Styles and Techniques in Graffiti

Historical Context

• Graffiti emerged in the 1960s and 1970s in New York City and Philadelphia as a form of urban expression and territorial marking
• Early graffiti writers (TAKI 183, JULIO 204) used simple tags and signatures to gain recognition and establish their presence in the city
• The rise of hip-hop culture in the 1970s and 1980s greatly influenced the development and spread of graffiti art
• Graffiti became more elaborate and stylized over time, evolving from simple tags to complex pieces and murals
• The New York City subway system served as a key canvas for early graffiti writers, allowing their work to travel throughout the city
• Graffiti spread to other cities and countries in the 1980s and 1990s, becoming a global phenomenon
• The commercialization of graffiti in the art world and popular culture in the 1980s led to increased mainstream recognition and acceptance

Key Styles and Forms

• Tagging involves writing a graffiti writer's name or pseudonym in a quick, stylized manner using markers or spray paint
• Throw-ups are larger, more elaborate versions of tags, often featuring bubble letters or simple designs
• Pieces (short for masterpieces) are large, complex, and highly stylized works that showcase a writer's skill and creativity
  • Pieces often incorporate multiple colors, intricate lettering styles, and background designs
  • Creating a piece can take several hours or even days to complete
• Wildstyle is a complex and abstract form of graffiti lettering that emphasizes interlocking and overlapping letters, making it difficult to read for outsiders
• Stencils involve creating a design on a cut-out template, which is then spray-painted onto a surface, allowing for quick and repeated application
• Wheat-pasting refers to the practice of creating artwork on paper or posters and adhering it to walls using a mixture of wheat flour and water
• Stickers are pre-designed artworks or tags printed on adhesive paper, allowing for quick and widespread placement throughout a city

Tools and Materials

• Spray paint is the most common and versatile tool used in graffiti, allowing for quick application and a wide range of colors and effects
  • Graffiti writers often use specialized spray paint caps to achieve different line widths and spray patterns
  • High-pressure spray paint cans are preferred for their ability to cover large areas quickly and evenly
• Markers, particularly wide-tipped permanent markers, are used for tagging and creating smaller, more detailed works
• Stencils are created using paper, cardboard, or other materials and are cut out using utility knives or laser cutters
• Wheat paste is made by mixing wheat flour and water to create an adhesive for attaching posters and paper-based artworks to walls
• Stickers are printed on adhesive paper using digital designs or hand-drawn artwork
• Paint rollers and brushes are sometimes used for creating larger pieces or for filling in background areas
• Palettes, cups, and other containers are used for mixing and storing paint colors during the creation process

Techniques and Methods

• Can control is essential for achieving clean lines, consistent spray patterns, and avoiding drips or overspray
  • Graffiti writers often practice can control techniques, such as proper hand positioning and movement, to improve their skills
• Layering involves building up colors and designs in a piece, starting with background elements and gradually adding foreground details
• Cutting or outlining is the process of creating sharp, clean edges around letters or designs using a contrasting color
• Highlighting adds depth and dimension to letters or designs by using lighter shades or colors to create the appearance of light hitting the surface
• Shading creates the illusion of depth and volume by using gradients or blends of colors to simulate shadows and lighting
• Overlapping letters or designs can create a sense of depth and complexity in a piece
• Using arrows, stars, or other graphic elements can add visual interest and guide the viewer's eye through the composition
• Incorporating characters, symbols, or imagery alongside lettering can enhance the overall theme or message of a piece

Notable Artists and Influences

• TAKI 183 and JULIO 204 were among the earliest and most influential graffiti writers in New York City, setting the stage for the development of the art form
• Phase 2 is credited with pioneering the use of arrows and other graphic elements in graffiti lettering, as well as developing the softie style
• Dondi White was known for his large-scale, colorful pieces that incorporated complex lettering styles and themes
• Lady Pink was one of the first prominent female graffiti writers, known for her distinctive style and socially conscious themes
• Seen is considered one of the most prolific and influential graffiti writers, known for his mastery of the wildstyle technique
• Banksy is a renowned British street artist known for his thought-provoking, politically charged stencil works and installations
• Shepard Fairey, creator of the iconic "OBEY" campaign and the "HOPE" poster for Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign, has significantly influenced contemporary street art
• Jean-Michel Basquiat began as a graffiti writer (SAMO) and transitioned to the gallery art world, becoming one of the most prominent artists of the 1980s

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Graffiti is often considered vandalism, as it involves creating artwork on property without the owner's permission
  • Many cities and countries have laws prohibiting graffiti and imposing fines or even jail time for those caught creating it
• The debate surrounding the legality and legitimacy of graffiti as an art form has been ongoing for decades
  • Some argue that graffiti is a valid form of artistic expression and should be protected under freedom of speech
  • Others view graffiti as a public nuisance that contributes to urban decay and promotes criminal behavior
• Legal walls or designated graffiti areas have been established in some cities as a way to provide a sanctioned space for graffiti writers to create artwork
• Commissioned murals or permitted street art projects have become more common, allowing artists to create work legally and with community support
• The ethics of using someone else's property as a canvas for artwork without permission remains a contentious issue
• Some graffiti writers adhere to an unwritten code of ethics, such as not writing over another artist's work or respecting certain community spaces (houses of worship, private homes)
• The commercialization of graffiti and street art has raised questions about the authenticity and integrity of the art form as it becomes more mainstream and commodified

Cultural Impact and Significance

• Graffiti has become a global phenomenon, with distinct regional styles and influences emerging in cities around the world
• Graffiti and street art have played a significant role in shaping urban visual culture and public space
• Graffiti has served as a form of social and political commentary, allowing artists to address issues such as inequality, racism, and gentrification
• The art form has provided a creative outlet and means of expression for marginalized communities and youth
• Graffiti has influenced and been influenced by other art forms, such as hip-hop music, break dancing, and fashion
• The commercialization of graffiti has led to its incorporation into mainstream art galleries, advertising campaigns, and consumer products
• Graffiti and street art have become popular tourist attractions in many cities, with guided tours and dedicated exhibitions showcasing the work of local artists
• The art form has sparked discussions about public space, property rights, and the role of art in society

Contemporary Trends and Innovations

• Digital technology has influenced the creation and dissemination of graffiti and street art, with artists using digital tools for designing and sharing their work online
• Social media platforms (Instagram) have become essential for graffiti writers and street artists to showcase their work, connect with audiences, and build their personal brands
• Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies are being explored as new mediums for creating and experiencing graffiti and street art
• Large-scale murals and public art projects have become more prevalent, often commissioned by cities, businesses, or community organizations
• Collaborative projects between graffiti writers, street artists, and other creative professionals (musicians, designers) have become more common
• Environmental and social justice themes have become increasingly prominent in contemporary graffiti and street art
• The use of unconventional materials and techniques (moss, yarn bombing, reverse graffiti) has expanded the boundaries of the art form
• The rise of street art festivals and events has provided new opportunities for artists to create work, engage with communities, and network with other professionals in the field