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How does street art differ from graffiti and other forms of urban art?

Hilary Lambkin

Hey there!

When it comes to urban art, there are a lot of different styles and techniques being used all over the world, but the two most widely recognized ones are definitely street art and graffiti. While they share similar roots and inspirations, the two styles differ in terms of both their aesthetics and their intentions.

To start with the basics, graffiti is typically characterized by its bold, graphic style, which often features elaborate lettering and bright, eye-catching colors. It's an art form that originated in the 1960s and 70s, when disaffected youth began using spray paint and markers to leave their mark on the walls and buildings of inner-city neighborhoods. Graffiti has since become associated with subcultures like hip-hop and punk, and it's often used as a form of political or social commentary.

Street art, on the other hand, is a much broader and more inclusive category that can encompass a variety of different techniques and styles. Street artists often work with stencils, wheatpaste, and other methods that don't involve spray paint, and they tend to focus more on creating larger, more intricate artworks that engage with the environment around them. While graffiti is often seen as an act of rebellion or defiance, street art is more about beautifying public spaces and encouraging people to engage with their urban environments.

Of course, there's plenty of overlap between the two styles, and there are some artists who blur the lines between the two. Banksy, for instance, is a street artist who's known for his use of stencils and his political commentary, but he's also created some works that could be considered graffiti-style.

One of the key differences between graffiti and street art is the way they're received by the public. Graffiti is often seen as a nuisance or a blight on the urban landscape, and it's frequently removed and punished by law enforcement. Street art, by contrast, is often embraced and celebrated by communities, who see it as a way to bring color and life to otherwise dull or neglected areas. Many cities and municipalities have even begun commissioning street art pieces as a way to revitalize public spaces and support local artists.

All that being said, there are certainly other forms of urban art out there beyond just graffiti and street art. Some artists work with found objects or installations, while others use projection or augmented reality to create immersive, interactive art experiences. Ultimately, what unites all these different styles and techniques is a shared sense of creativity, resourcefulness, and a desire to engage with the world around us.