History of Graffiti

A Short History of Graffiti

Graffiti as a form of Identity

Open Ended

Hey scholars and artists!

What do you know about graffiti?

Graffiti is an art form that we are all familiar with, we see it everywhere in our city, and it is accessible to everyone. Graffiti has been around for a long time, and opinions are pretty divided about graffiti... is it art or is it a public nuisance? I want to know YOUR opinion. Tell me what you think about graffiti as an art form- do you agree or disagree and what are your reasons?

Definition of Graffiti:

Graffiti is writing or drawings made on a wall or other surface, usually without permission and within public view. Graffiti ranges from simple written words to elaborate wall paintings, and has existed since ancient times, with examples dating back to ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire.

Multiple Choice

What is your take away after watching this video 

• Graffiti has been around since ancient times

• Graffiti is a form of self expression; a way to highlight your identity

• Graffiti is a form of rebellion or protest.

• All of these statements are true.

Let's recap. Why do people create graffiti?

• Graffiti is a form of self expression

• Graffiti is a way to protest social issues

• Graffiti can honor or memorialize important people in a community

• Graffiti is a way to mark your presence and identity

• Graffiti can be seen as a way to rebel against societal norms

Jean Michel Basquiat

One of the most famous artists in the world began his career as a graffiti artist here in NYC. One of his paintings recently sold for 110 million dollars.

Untitled, 1982, by Jean Michel Basquiat

Poll

If you were super rich, would you spend that kind of money on a work of art that you loved?

• YES

• NO

• MAYBE

Open Ended

Write down your observations of this painting. What do you see? Describe the colors. What about the way that artist painted the image? What do you think this painting means?

Banksy

Banksy's work is among the most recognizable images in the world today. He travels the world to create his work- no one ever knows where his work will appear, and no one knows who the artist is or what he looks like. What do you think the message of this work is?

Open Ended

What do you think the message behind the Girl with a Balloon image is?

Open Ended

Think back to what you thought about graffiti before this lesson. Has your opinion changed? Explain your answer.

Poll

Do you think Graffiti is....

• Art

• Vandalism