Honoring graffiti : a history and vindication

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Authors
Gilbert, Laura M.
Advisor
Dalton, Elizabeth
Issue Date
2012-07
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (B.?.)
Department
Honors College
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The attitude toward graffiti is in an uncertain place in contemporary culture. While part of mainstream culture rushes to embrace the graffiti art movement for what it is and for what it represents, others struggle to fit it into their established standards of "fine" or "high" art, and yet more reject it entirely as a form of creative expression. I propose that these conflicted reactions to the movement are the result of unfamiliarity with its historical origins and evolution as well as miscommunication between the community in which it developed and the communities that struggle to accept it. I seek to heighten awareness of the historical value of graffiti as part of the longest tradition of human visual communication we have, from cave painting to ancient Pompeii to World War II an beyond. I also seek to promote a better understanding of the artistic language, goals, and definitions that the contemporary graffiti art community has developed. Finally, through research and interviews, I seek to improve the communication between graffiti art culture and mainstream culture in order to honor graffiti as art without condoning the disrespect and defacement of other art and built environments. Even so, I hope to do this without confining graffiti to traditional standards, definitions, or locations.