Graffiti can convey a sense of history and art. In ancient times travelers would leave a mark of their visit on statues and other stone monuments for posterity. Hadrian, a Roman Emperor, did this on a statue at the entrance of the Valley of the Kings in Egypt to “commemorate” his visit. Graffiti can also convey a sense of history by its content. It can tell us how popular or unpopular something was at a given time in the past such as a war or a particular social trend. Graffiti was and still is seen by many as a nuisance and defacement of private or public property but it also has being elevated and recognized as real art.

As an example of graffiti as an art form we can cite Keith Haring’s works. He was inspired by graffiti art in NYC. The public first noticed his chalk drawing creations on the subways. His works, recognized as an art form made it to galleries, museums and he was also commissioned to create murals in several NYC buildings. He created wall murals in Melbourne, Australia and became friends with Andy Warhol who was the subject of several of Haring’s pieces. Wow!

So yes, I believe Graffiti is an art form.