Is Graffiti Art?

Graffiti artists across the globe today express their thoughts in multi-coloured displays on all surfaces around us. However could claim that it is visually weakening and the laws against it are not strict , as people's properties are unwillingly defaced. Therefore to what extent can graffiti be thought about art?

On hand graffiti by definition can be thought about art; a personal visual point of view is created by producing something stunning or weird. Graffiti artists take much hard work & time in practicing technique, covering portfolios prior to visually entertaining the public, devoting limitless hours in contrast to some 'art' on display at the Tate Modern. For example murals are painted in memory of respected people & events on places such as the Berlin Wall to improve our landscape & remind passersby. In addition art is an output of feelings & emotions which can express & tell particular issues of society.

'Banksy's' politically satirical pieces share a aware of lots of less risk taking, thrill seeking bystanders. They has beautified walls in the Gaza strip because it improves the scenery, like abandoned buildings & railways that would otherwise stay bland & ugly. Furthermore graffiti is a symbol of freedom. Freedom of speech is a right people have died for. Graffiti artists risk everything for their visualisations to be expressed, acknowledging that prosecution is a certainty if caught. Surely other crimes facing our world today warrant more focus?

On the other hand graffiti is vandalism & is illegal for plenty of reasons. Aggravation & irritation are caused by vandals destroying private property without consent. For example places of worship in poorer areas are canvases for these CFC emitters, in turn offending limitless religious communities. Imagine how the 'artist' would feel if their property were devalued & ruined with their own tools. Why should not these artists use their talent in much more constructive ways?

There are the facilities to produce graffiti legally, even whole areas in Paris. 'Artists' run small businesses to the ground by 'tagging' shop fronts which put off potential customers. Consequently graffiti removal teams are paid to tidy the walls by the taxpayers as the works can promote gangs, racism & even anti-Semitism; this is all very expensive & subsequently necessary to reduce crime.

Altogether the fact is that graffiti is both art and vandalism and it will persist for eternity. I think it is a heavily controversial style of art; however some creations amaze me to the extent of appreciation, much over some conceptual modern art I have observed.