Opposing Views on Graffiti
There are two very divergent schools of thought on the phenomenon of graffiti. To those in the anti-graffiti camp, it is a scourge and should be met with the full weight of the law until it is eliminated entirely. The opposing view holds that it is a legitimate urban art form that constitutes an outlet for disenfranchised artists. There is much ongoing disagreement between the two sides.
The Argument Against Graffiti
Traditionally graffiti has been considered a violation of universal statutes that prohibit vandalism. Detractors point out that the perpetrators of this art have no legitimate claim to ownership of the surfaces they adorn. From this point of view, the unsanctioned painting of public areas is seen as defacement rather than decoration. Law-enforcement institutions almost universally subscribe to this view.
Graffiti is often associated with the subversive activities of gangs and other criminal elements. Paintings or "tags", as they are colloquially known, are thought to contain hidden messages decipherable only to those versed in the secrets of the criminal underground. Further, it is argued that graffiti generally degrades the appearance of its foil rather than beautifying it as legitimate art would.
The Pro-Graffiti View
The stance in favor of graffiti has gained ground in recent years. Supporters of this position hold that the painting of public areas is a valid form of youthful expression that should not be suppressed. It is believed that the public has no right to censor art or deem that it is legitimate or not. This view can be seen as a radical extension of anti-censorship sentiments. It is also sometimes pointed out that many of the artists possess great talent, and some of their work has genuine aesthetic value.
The Argument Against Graffiti
Traditionally graffiti has been considered a violation of universal statutes that prohibit vandalism. Detractors point out that the perpetrators of this art have no legitimate claim to ownership of the surfaces they adorn. From this point of view, the unsanctioned painting of public areas is seen as defacement rather than decoration. Law-enforcement institutions almost universally subscribe to this view.
Graffiti is often associated with the subversive activities of gangs and other criminal elements. Paintings or "tags", as they are colloquially known, are thought to contain hidden messages decipherable only to those versed in the secrets of the criminal underground. Further, it is argued that graffiti generally degrades the appearance of its foil rather than beautifying it as legitimate art would.
The Pro-Graffiti View
The stance in favor of graffiti has gained ground in recent years. Supporters of this position hold that the painting of public areas is a valid form of youthful expression that should not be suppressed. It is believed that the public has no right to censor art or deem that it is legitimate or not. This view can be seen as a radical extension of anti-censorship sentiments. It is also sometimes pointed out that many of the artists possess great talent, and some of their work has genuine aesthetic value.