The distinction between street art and graffiti in Los Angeles is rooted in the historical context of muralism and the Chicano art movement. Before the 2000s, the term "street art" was not commonly used, and muralism was the prevailing term. As a Los Angeles mural artist, I had my initial exposure to art through the vibrant Chicano murals scattered throughout the city and its surroundings. However, when I ventured into the world of graffiti, I recognized it as the next evolution of Chicano art in my own perspective.
Within the Chicano art movement, graffiti was not considered a part of its ethos. The leading mural artists of the movement like The East Los Streetscapers, Judy Baca, and George Yepes, did not view graffiti as aligned with their artistic vision and the messages they aimed to convey through their murals. Graffiti was seen as a separate entity, associated more closely with experiences and expressions outside the boundaries of the Chicano movement. Notably, the influence of hip-hop culture played a significant role in the emergence and development of graffiti, distinguishing it from the Chicano art movement.
For artists, gaining recognition and respect for their work in the streets was a gradual process. It took years of dedication, persistence, and creating art in the public space before being acknowledged by the established "elders" in the art community. The difference between street art and graffiti in Los Angeles can be traced back to the historical context of muralism and the Chicano art movement. Street art emerged as a distinct term in the 2000s, with notable artists like Shepard Fairey, Banksy, and KAWS gaining fame. Prior to that, muralism was the prevalent term, and graffiti represented a subsequent evolution of Chicano art in my mind. The perspectives of Chicano mural artists and their focus on cultural movements influenced their view of graffiti as a separate entity, while hip-hop culture played a pivotal role in the development of graffiti as a distinct artistic expression.
SOME Key differences between Street Art and Graffiti
The distinction between street art and graffiti in Los Angeles encompasses various key elements, shedding light on the artists' approaches, their sense of community, and the diverse forms of artistic expression they employ. In the context of Los Angeles, renowned for its vibrant art scene, these differences become particularly evident.
Street artists, including Los Angeles mural artists, are characterized by their individualistic approach. They operate independently, distinct from belonging to crews or groups. Street artists conceive specific ideas for their pieces, whether it's in the form of posters, stickers, or large-scale murals, and directly apply them to the streets. Their primary objective is to create visually striking statements or convey powerful messages that resonate with the public. In contrast, graffiti artists perceive the street itself as their artistic domain, using it as a studio to refine their skills and develop their unique style. Immersed in a community-driven subculture, graffiti artists learn from and collaborate with their peers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collective identity.
It is important to note that street art has evolved into an all-encompassing term, embracing a wide array of artistic expressions created in public spaces. While graffiti remains a prominent form, street art now includes art murals, wheat pasting, installation art, and various other dynamic forms of live art. This inclusivity allows artists to explore diverse mediums, experiment with techniques, and engage with the urban environment in innovative ways. Public spaces serve as their canvases, transforming drab walls into vibrant artworks that provoke thought, challenge societal norms, and contribute to the aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods and cities. Street art blurs the traditional boundaries between art forms and the urban landscape, inviting a visual dialogue with the public and shaping the cultural identity of the community.
In Los Angeles, the distinction between street art and graffiti reflects the individualistic nature of street artists and the community-driven ethos of graffiti artists. Street art encompasses a broad spectrum of artistic expressions, expanding beyond graffiti to include various dynamic forms. Both street art and graffiti contribute to the rich artistic tapestry of Los Angeles, engaging with the public, sparking conversations, and leaving an indelible visual imprint on the city's urban landscape.
Graffiti, on the other hand, primarily focuses on personal expression, crew affiliation, or marking territories. Street art is generally embraced and recognized as a legitimate form of artistic expression, contributing to the cultural enrichment of communities. In contrast, graffiti faces social and legal stigma due to its unauthorized nature, often perceived as a blight on public spaces.
Brands and corporations can mostly prefer street art over graffiti for its legitimacy, positive brand associations, visual impact, authenticity, and social media virality. Street art, created with permission and commissioning, aligns with a brand's image and values. It captures attention with vibrant colors and intricate details, leaving a lasting impression. Sometimes why brands like Street art over Graffiti lies in street art's authenticity and street credibility to resonate with audiences, while its popularity on social media allows for viral exposure. Collaborating with street artists helps brands connect with diverse audiences, creating memorable experiences, and positioning themselves as supporters of art and popular forms of graffiti culture in local communities.
Good People Under Our Sun and Moon
One notable example of commissioned street art I recently created is titled "The Good People Under Our Sun and Moon." This piece was created with permission from the city of Placentia, California and is situated on both sides of Crowther St., under the 57 freeway.
The mural, measuring 185 ft. Wide by 29 ft. High, serves as a visual landmark in the community. Its theme draws inspiration from the mythology of the sun and the moon, exploring their relevance to housing, shelter, and community in our modern society. This authorized mural project reflects the intention of artists to provoke thought, foster unity, and contribute to the cultural fabric of the city. The completion of these extraordinary and huge murals required over 80 gallons of paint, showcasing my dedication and skill to bring this significant artwork to life.