Graffiti Vs Street Art

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Street art and graffiti, two very different styles of expression are commonly assumed to be the same. Banksy, a street artist, film director, and political activist known for his subversive and satirical street art fused with dark humor. His works of social and political commentary are arguably the most evocative and raw pieces in the world of street art.

One of the influences that made Banksy the artist he is today was Robert Del Ninja. Robert generally used a stencil for his work. His famous works included a satirical impersonation of Mona Lisa and the Blek le Rat. The Blek le Rat could be seen all throughout Paris, which was evidently seen by young artist Banksy. Robert’s influence was greatly apparent in Banksy’s later work.

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Graffiti and street art is often associated with gangs, vandalism and violence. Assumptions like these make it hard for street artists to gain popularity without being criticized by the public. But there is there is indeed a strong difference between street art and graffiti. “While both involve the re-appropriation of public space, there is a strong difference between the forms of expression” (Davis, Herron School of Art + …show more content…
Street Art is for frustrated graphic designers with too much time on their hands and not enough creative control in their day jobs" (Davis, Herron School of Art + Design).

Despite the controversy between street art and graffiti, neither should be considered or thought of “more” culturally credible. Both forms of art are ways for artists to express their true selves, and that is why each should be thought of as equal.

Ever since the anonymous artist, Banksy, has become public, there has been a constant debate regarding art, authorship, community, value, and ownership. All this controversy is constantly changing what we call street art. “Councillor Richard Eddy, the Tory councillor for Bishopstown, says the effect of Banksy has generally been positive, but that he has concerns over the 'explosion' of lower grade graffiti art which he says can make an area look ugly and even more run-down. Nowadays there is a wide gulf in the styles of graffiti and how much they count as art” (Cockroft, Daily Mail) Banksy had started a new revolution and style of art, it is changing cities all around the word. As councillor Richard Eddy stated, his art does not always have a positive effect on the public. Banksy inadvertently has led to a relaxation in the law, allowing artists to freely spray the streets

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