Graffiti

street art · history · creativity · public art

Ancient roots. People have been making graffiti for thousands of years. Archaeologists have found graffiti in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, so this type of art is almost as old as civilization itself.

Many styles exist. Graffiti can be anything from a quick marker signature called a moniker to huge, beautiful, colorful paintings that cover entire walls. Some graffiti is simple words, while other pieces are incredibly detailed and artistic.

Shared with public. Graffiti is meant to be seen by lots of people in public spaces like streets, buildings, and bridges. The fact that many people see it is a key part of what makes graffiti different from private art.

Usually not allowed. Most graffiti is created without permission from whoever owns the wall or surface. This is why graffiti exists in a tricky space between being illegal and being recognized as a real art form.