grafitis

Grafitis, often referred to simply as graffiti, denotes inscriptions, drawings, or paintings created on public surfaces, typically in urban environments. The term covers a wide range of works, from simple signatures or “tags” to elaborate color pieces and murals. While graffiti is frequently associated with street culture, it is part of a broader practice that overlaps with street art, muralism, and public installations.

History and development have roots in multiple eras. Modern graffiti emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s in New York City, spreading to other urban centers worldwide. Early writers focused on tagging as a personal signature and soon evolved toward more complex pieces completed on trains, walls, and buildings. From the 1980s onward, graffiti became a global urban phenomenon influencing youth culture, hip hop, and contemporary art. Longstanding examples of graffiti also appear in ancient civilizations, where inscriptions and drawings on walls served social or religious purposes.

Techniques and styles vary widely. Common forms include tags, throw-ups, and fully painted pieces. Tools often include spray paints, markers, stencils, and stickers. Artists experiment with lettering styles, color schemes, and perspective, producing works that range from decorative murals to highly intricate scenes, sometimes featuring 3D effects or photorealistic elements. Legal walls and sanctioned spaces provide venues for practice and display.

Legal and social aspects differ by jurisdiction. In many places, unauthorized graffiti constitutes vandalism and is subject to penalties, while other areas recognize graffiti as a legitimate art form, supporting permits, community programs, and designated walls. Debates around graffiti address property rights, urban aesthetics, cultural expression, and neighborhood impact. Notable practitioners include early writers such as TAKI 183 and Cornbread, alongside contemporary figures like Banksy, whose work has spurred discussions on authorship and public art.