Street Art. Is it Art or Straight Up Graffiti?

Though street art may be illegal, I believe it can be an amazing form of creative expression.

Definition.net defines street art as “art, specifically visual art, developed in public spaces…The term can include traditional graffiti artwork, sculpture, stencil graffiti, sticker art, wheatpasting and street poster art, video projection, art intervention, guerrilla art, and street installations. Typically, the term street art or the more specific post-graffiti is used to distinguish contemporary public-space artwork from territorial graffiti, vandalism, and corporate art.”

This definition explains that this type of art is typically unapproved by the government, therefore it is illegal. It is unique from graffiti because it has nothing to do with marking territory or terrorizing random businesses with vandalism. It is powerful artwork that is being portrayed on an unconventional canvas.

I first became aware of street art through the show Switched at Birth. Bay, an angsty teenager, enjoyed putting up stencils and creating artwork illegally on the streets. She was passionate about this and felt that it gave her a way to define who she was. John Kennish, Bay’s father, thought it was purely a form of vandalism and anyone who put it up should be sent to jail. His argument is understandable and is similar to the opinions of most. Bay eventually persuaded John into understanding why she had such a passion for street art. She explained that it was a form of self-expression that gave people who saw it a reason to think.

In Fort Collins, CO, graffiti is a crime. According to the City of Fort Collins website, “The difference between graffiti and art is permission.” The city even has a Graffiti Hotline that people can call any time if they have been tagged. They see all forms of unapproved art as a crime and something that needs to be stopped.

Though street art is illegal and maybe shouldn’t exist at all, I think it adds a bit of intrigue to any viewers’ eyes. Most street artists portray controversial topics since all of this work is anonymous. They feel as though they can express their true opinions without consequence, that is, if they don’t get caught. Most send out an impactful message that most people wouldn’t have the audacity to talk about unless they were given a reason to.

Banksy, among other artists, is very well known for his political artwork. He sheds light on real world issues. His work is powerful and enlightening. I believe that work like this has a positive impact on culture. I think it is good for people to discuss the issues brought up in these art pieces and admire the creativity of them.

Should it be illegal? Yes, because it is still being created on other peoples’ property. If people were allowed to put art anywhere, there would be chaos.

Artist and Colorado State University Student, Abigail Asadi, has some interesting thoughts on this topic. She says, “I think that there should be some regulation [on street art]…I don’t think that the regulation should be too strict, however, as art stems from our right to the freedom of speech.” Miss Asadi believes that art is a form of expression that should not be restricted as much as it is right now.

Does restricted street art have a positive impact though? Yes, because it helps people explore their creative side and view a message that will stimulate them and open up important discussions.

I respect artists who take this risk to try to better the world through their art. They work hard to shine light on their opinions and I think that is a powerful way of life.