Art or Vandalism History of Graffiti Graffiti can

Art or Vandalism?

History of Graffiti » Graffiti can be dated as far back as the 1930’s » Was used for political statements and street gangs to mark territory » In the 1960’s CORNBREAD and KOOL EARL gained attention in Philadelphia for “tagging” the city with their names

Cornbread » Darryl Mc. Cray, referred to as "Cornbread", is a graffiti artist from Philadelphia, USA. Starting in 1967, he is regarded as "father of modern graffiti”. He is also known for writing his name on an elephant at the Philadelphia Zoo and on the side of the Jackson 5's private jet. His initial efforts in graffiti were based upon his love interest for a girl.

Subculture was Born » Soon afterward Taki 183 gained notoriety in Manhattan » Taki 183 is known to have started the graffiti movement in New York City. A greek kid from 183 rd Street in Washington Heights. Taki 183’s simple signature captured the attention of a reporter and, on July 21, 1971, the article “TAKI 183 Spawns Pen Pals” appeared in The New York Times. » A subculture of graffiti artists began competing for the best tags in Brooklyn

Tag Style » Soon there were so many graffiti artists that in order to stand out tags needed to be unique » Different scripts and calligraphy were used » Others enhanced their tags with stars and flourishes

Tag Scale » The next development was scale » Writers started increasing the size and width of the tags » As well as outlining them in a different color

ART or Vandalism? » Graffiti is now a recognized form of art. » However, if the artist chooses to create his/her art on someone else’s property without permission it is vandalism and is illegal

Your Assignment » Create your own “TAG” » Must include your name » Must be unique » Must be colorful

Procedures » Sketch ideas out on the scratch paper » Draw final “tag” on large paper, lightly in pencil » Color “tag” with oil pastels.

You Will Be Graded On » » » Creativity Effort Craftsmanship Following Directions Aesthetic Quality