Is Graffiti Art Or Vandalism?
The history of this goes back to the Vandals and Goths in the dark ages. Or actually it could if they had access to spray cans of paint. The very fact that this discussion has been had in some of the City Council chambers in many communities across the country tells you what this question represents.
Art is what the viewer say it is to them. This is a personal appraisal, however, art appreciation can be taught and so can the spraying of paint over an exposed surface of wall, fence or the odd plate glass window. Since it is a personal thing, it should be enjoyed in an area that is conducive to art. It should be exhibited in such a way as to bring it to the attention of those who enjoy the art for the sake of the art.
Graffiti is the nomenclature of something that is placed where it does not belong. It is the creation of something that is usually done at a point in time and place so as to avoid someone seeing it being done, especially any authority figures. It is done in such a way as to brand a piece of property and of signaling a certain ownership of that property based on gang related terms of acquisition and a statement of purpose.
Vandalism is something that is done to something so as to interfere with its normal value. The breaking of things or the removal of their dignity is part of this. Destroying things or making them a little less beautiful than they were is also a part of this activity. The purpose of this is to say to the owners, and any one looking at it, that this piece of property is not really yours because I have placed my brand on it.
Is graffiti art or vandalism? It might be art, based on the viewers appreciation, however it is graffiti, so it is vandalism.