Are public spaces only meant for a particular group of people? Who determines what is art and what is vandalism? As cities around the world continue to grow, it becomes necessary to claim spaces for oneself and the community. In recent years, street art and tagging have become popular forms of expression that aim to reclaim public spaces from corporate and government influence. In this blog, we’ll explore the perspectives behind tagging and street art and the movement behind it.

The Meaning Behind Tagging 🖍️

Tagging is considered one of the first forms of street art and is often associated with graffiti. But what is its purpose? For many urban youth, it is a way to reclaim public spaces that are often neglected by the government. It’s a way to make their presence felt and protest against the systemic issues that they face. Tagging is an expression of dissent against the status quo and can be seen as a way to democratize public spaces. While it is often associated with vandalism, it can also be viewed as an art form that allows individuals to express themselves freely.

A picture of a wall with several tags on it.

The Rise of Street Art 🎨

In contrast to tagging, street art is a more elaborate and legally acceptable form of expression. It often involves large murals and intricate designs that are created with the permission of city officials or building owners. Street art is seen as a way to beautify public spaces and add character to otherwise dull buildings. It’s a way to make art accessible to people who may not have the opportunity to visit museums or galleries. In cities like Berlin and Melbourne, street art has become a tourist attraction and a part of the urban landscape.

A picture of an elaborate street mural with vibrant colors and intricate designs.

The Politics of Art 🏛️

Despite the growing popularity of street art, there is still a debate over whether it is art or vandalism. For many, it is a way to resist the mainstream culture and advocate for the marginalized. However, others argue that it is disrespectful to property and can lead to an increase in crime. It is important to note that street art and tagging are political acts that reflect the social issues of our times. It is a form of activism that allows individuals to express themselves without censorship.

A picture of a graffiti that reads "Art is not a crime" in bold letters on a wall.

Conclusion 🎉

Tagging and street art are forms of expression that allow individuals to claim public spaces for themselves and the community. While they may be controversial, they serve as a way to democratize the urban landscape and make art accessible to all. It is essential to understand the politics of art and how it reflects our social issues. As cities continue to grow, it’s important to remember that public spaces belong to everyone. Tagging and street art serve as a reminder of that.

An image that shows cities with large murals and graffiti on buildings.

In conclusion, as we can see, tagging and street art are acts to claim public spaces, democratize them, and reflect social issues. They are ways to make art accessible to all and express oneself freely. However, it is necessary to understand the politics of it to avoid misunderstandings.