Graffiti and street art might seem like something new, but they’ve actually been around for a long time. Even ancient civilizations like the Mayans and Romans left behind public art. This article explores how independent public art has evolved over time, its importance in communities, and how it connects with mainstream art.
Independent public art has a long history that goes back way before modern times. Ancient people used public art to communicate and express themselves. For example, in the ancient city of Pompeii, people like Pacatus left their marks on amphitheater columns, showing that the urge to create art in public spaces is timeless.
Independent public art is different from official public art because it’s usually made without permission. This freedom allows artists to express themselves in unique ways and challenge societal norms. Experts like Javier Abarca point out that this type of art often crosses boundaries, both physically and creatively, as artists create works that span multiple properties.
The modern version of independent public art started in the late 1960s in cities like New York and Philadelphia. Artists began by spray-painting their names, or “tags,” on buildings. In the 1970s, this evolved into more complex street art with large images. Today, independent public art includes many styles and techniques, often mixing different artistic influences.
Since creating art on public property without permission is technically illegal, there’s a constant tension between artists and authorities. This makes independent public art temporary, as it can be removed or covered up at any time. Many artists embrace this fleeting nature, seeing it as a chance for their art to grow with the community. Projects like Jennifer Allora and Guillermo Calzadilla’s “Chalk” involve local people, highlighting the communal aspect of creating art.
Independent public art is often a powerful way to express political ideas. While it might start as vandalism in the eyes of some, public opinion can change, giving these works more recognition over time. For instance, the murals on the Berlin Wall during the Cold War became symbols of resistance. More recently, murals created after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis have become places for public mourning and activism, showing how independent public art can address important social issues.
Projects like the Urban Art Mapping initiative at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota are working to document independent public art, preserving it for future generations. By cataloging these works, researchers can study how street art responds to protests and other events, offering insights into how communities express themselves.
Independent public art has made its way into mainstream culture, as seen in the work of Jean-Michel Basquiat. Starting in the street art scene in the late 1970s, Basquiat’s art critiqued the commercial art world while also gaining fame within it. His pieces, like “Horn Players,” mix street art with traditional art forms, showing the complex relationship between rebellion and acceptance in the art world.
Even though independent public art is often seen as illegal, it plays a vital role in shaping communities and reflecting societal issues. It adds life to urban spaces and gives a voice to political movements, encouraging global activism. As the art world increasingly values this diverse form of expression, independent public art continues to teach us about history, culture, and the human experience. In our next discussion, we’ll explore the complex debate surrounding originality in art.
Research a specific example of ancient public art, such as the graffiti in Pompeii or Mayan murals. Prepare a short presentation to share with the class, highlighting how these early forms of public art compare to modern graffiti and street art. Consider the purposes they served and the materials used.
Using materials like chalk, spray paint on canvas, or digital tools, create your own piece of street art. Focus on expressing a personal or political message. Share your artwork with the class and explain the inspiration behind it and the message you aim to convey.
Participate in a class debate on whether independent public art should be considered art or vandalism. Prepare arguments for both sides, considering the perspectives of artists, city officials, and community members. Discuss the impact of public art on urban environments and its role in society.
Find a piece of independent public art in your community and document it through photos or sketches. Research its background, including the artist (if known) and any community reactions. Present your findings to the class, discussing the art’s significance and its impact on the local area.
Choose a well-known street artist, such as Banksy or Jean-Michel Basquiat, and research their journey from independent public art to mainstream recognition. Create a timeline of their career, noting key works and how their style and themes have evolved over time. Share your timeline with the class and discuss the artist’s influence on both street art and the broader art world.
Independent – Not influenced or controlled by others in matters of opinion, conduct, or art; thinking or acting for oneself. – The artist’s independent style set her apart from her contemporaries, allowing her to create unique pieces that challenged traditional norms.
Public – Open to or shared by all people; accessible to the community. – The new sculpture in the city square is a public artwork, intended to inspire and engage everyone who passes by.
Art – The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture. – The Renaissance period is renowned for its significant contributions to art, with masterpieces that continue to influence artists today.
Graffiti – Writing or drawings scribbled, scratched, or sprayed illicitly on a wall or other surface in a public place. – The graffiti on the abandoned building was not only a form of rebellion but also a vibrant expression of the artist’s social commentary.
History – The study of past events, particularly in human affairs. – Understanding the history of art movements helps students appreciate the cultural and political contexts in which these works were created.
Community – A group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common, often sharing cultural and artistic interests. – The local art community organized a festival to celebrate the diverse talents of its members and to foster a sense of unity.
Expression – The process of making known one’s thoughts or feelings through art. – Through her abstract paintings, the artist found a powerful means of expression, conveying emotions that words could not capture.
Political – Relating to the government or public affairs of a country, often reflected in art as a form of critique or support. – The mural depicted a political message, challenging viewers to reflect on the current state of democracy.
Culture – The arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively. – The museum’s exhibit on ancient Egyptian culture included artifacts that highlighted the civilization’s artistic and architectural achievements.
Activism – The policy or action of using vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change, often reflected in art. – Street art has become a powerful tool for activism, with murals addressing issues such as climate change and social justice.
