What is Street Art?

Street art is one of the most dynamic, engaging, and transformative art forms in the world. It is art for the people, by the people. Often placed right in the heart of urban spaces where everyone can see it, critique it, and experience it. Street art when compared to art confined within the walls of a gallery, is often loud and rebellious. It thrives in the open air, on walls, sidewalks, bridges, and even abandoned buildings. It’s bold, attention grabbing, and above all, it’s also absolutely stunning. And makes a magnificent addition to the surroundings.

Let me take you on a journey through the world of street art. Together we will follow its origins, evolution, and why it continues to captivate millions.

The Roots of Street Art: Where It All Began

To understand street art, we need to go back—way back—to ancient times. Yes, street art, in its rawest form, isn’t new. Think of the cave paintings of Lascaux in France or the rock carvings in Australia. These were humanity’s first attempts to use art to tell stories. And share messages that would reveal details of its civilization.

Fast forward to the Roman Empire, where graffiti adorned the walls of Pompeii. Messages ranged from political slogans to declarations of love. Even then, public art was a way for individuals to voice their thoughts to the masses. It’s incredible, isn’t it, how history repeats itself? Although this was less artistic and more a form of written rebellion. We will go on to look at the difference between street art and graffiti later on in this article.

Key Highlights from Early History:

• Cave Paintings: Prehistoric art as a form of storytelling.
• Roman Graffiti: Political and personal messages.
• Medieval Times: Public murals with religious themes.

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Modern Street Art: The Rise of Rebellion

The street art we know today took root in the mid-20th century, particularly in urban centres. Picture New York City: the 1970s, a time of social upheaval and cultural revolution. The city’s subway cars and walls became canvases for young artists armed with spray paint and a message. Graffiti was born. Gangs would also leave their tags across the city. These would let others know that they were on some one else’s turf!

Graffiti started as a way to claim space and identity. It was a way for marginalized voices to get their feelings known and be heard. Artists like Taki 183 and Cornbread, made a name for themselves. They crossed the city tagging their signatures in as many places as possible. Soon, graffiti evolved beyond simple tags. In place of tags came elaborate murals, often with vibrant colours and intricate designs.

What’s fascinating is how this underground movement became a global phenomenon. By the 1980s, artists like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat brought street art into galleries. While at the same time still staying true to their urban roots. Their work blurred the lines between street art and high art. This challenged the established art world of what art could be. And where it could be.

Why Modern Street Art Took Off:

• Youth Rebellion: A way to challenge authority and norms.
• Accessibility: Art that didn’t require a ticket.
• Innovation: New tools like spray paint made it easier and faster.

Street Art vs. Graffiti: What’s the Difference?

This is a debate I’ve had countless times with friends, fellow enthusiasts, and even artists. Is all graffiti street art? Is all street art graffiti? Well, not exactly.

Graffiti is often about lettering and tagging, focused on the artist’s identity. It’s more personal, sometimes even cryptic to outsiders. Street art, on the other hand, is broader. It includes murals, stencils, posters, and even installations. Street art often aims to engage a wider audience. It’s job is to communicate a message, whether political, humorous, or simply beautiful.

Quick Breakdown:

• Graffiti: Personal, focused on text, often illegal.
• Street Art: Diverse, message-driven, sometimes legal. Often very detailed and large.

What is Street Art continued: The Global Explosion of Street Art

One of my favourite things about street art is how it’s become a universal language. Wherever you go – from the bustling streets of London to the colourful alleys of Buenos Aires. You will find street art that speaks to local culture and global themes.

In the early 2000s, artists like Banksy brought street art into the mainstream. His satirical stencils in cities around the world made people stop, think, and even laugh. Suddenly, street art wasn’t just for those in the know; it was for everyone.

Social media has played a huge role in this explosion. Platforms like Instagram allow artists to share their work instantly, reaching millions of their followers. Most of whom might never visit the physical location of the artwork. It’s wild to think about how technology has amplified an art form that’s so rooted in physical space. So what is street art ? Have a look at the video below for one artists viewpoint

Tools of the Trade

Have you ever wondered how street artists create their magic? It’s not just spray paint, though that’s a big part of it. Different artists use different tools depending on their style and message.

Common Tools:

• Spray Paint: The classic choice for vibrant colours and quick application.
• Stencils: Perfect for precise, repeatable designs.
• Wheat Paste: Used for posters and paper art. This easy to make flower and water glue, is perfect for low budget applications.
• Brushes and Rollers: Great for large-scale murals.

The Messages Behind the Art

Street art isn’t just about looking pretty. It’s about making a statement. Some pieces are deeply political, addressing issues like climate change, inequality, or war. Others are more personal, reflecting the artist’s experiences or emotions.

One of the most powerful aspects of street art is its ability to spark conversation. Walking past a powerful mural can make you stop and reconsider your own beliefs. Or see an issue from a new perspective. Isn’t that what all great art is supposed to do?

Themes You’ll Often See:

• Social Justice: Fighting for equality and human rights.
• Cultural Identity: Celebrating local history and traditions.
• Humour and Satire: Poking fun at society and politics.

Hope you enjoy this short documentary about Banksy. The U.K.’s most well known, unknown artist….

Legal and Ethical Questions

Of course, not everyone sees street art as a positive force. The question of legality is a big one. Many cities consider street art vandalism, punishable by fines or even jail time. But there’s also a growing movement to create legal spaces for street art. This is great news! A place where artists can work without fear of punishment. And also because personally I find some street art absolutely stunning. And a credit to its surroundings

For me, this raises interesting ethical questions. Is it okay to paint on someone else’s property without permission, even if the result is beautiful? And what happens when a beloved mural gets painted over by another artist or removed by the city? These are debates that keep the street art world lively and ever-evolving.

Why I Love Street Art

If you’ve made it this far, you can probably tell how much I love street art. There’s something magical about walking down a street and stumbling upon a piece of art that takes your breath away. It’s unexpected, it’s raw, and it’s real.

Street art reminds me that creativity knows no bounds. It’s a testament to human expression, resilience, and the desire to connect. And in a world that often feels divided, street art brings us together, one wall at a time.

So, next time you’re out and about, take a moment to look around. Who knows? You might just find a masterpiece hiding in plain sight.

I hope you really enjoyed this article. Now click here for an article all about surrealism as an artform