C&T Publications Eye on Fine Art Photography - August 2014 | Page 41

There are the facilities to produce graffiti legally, even whole areas in Paris. 'Artists' run small businesses to the ground by 'tagging' shop fronts which put off potential customers. Consequently, graffiti removal teams are paid to clean the walls by the taxpayers as the works can promote gangs, racism and even anti-Semitism; this is all very expensive and subsequently necessary to reduce crime. Altogether the fact is that graffiti is both art and vandalism and it will persist for eternity. I believe it is a heavily controversial genre of art; however some creations amaze me to the extent of appreciation, much more than some conceptual modern art I have observed. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_William_Hall "Graffiti contributes to lost revenue associated with reduced ridership on transit systems, reduced retail sales and declines in property value. In addition, graffiti generates the perception of blight and heightens fear of gang activity" ...reports the U.S. Department of Justice. “Should graffiti be judged on the same level as modern art? Of course not: It's way more important than that.” ...Banksy What do you think? Is it art or not? Weigh in with your answer at our Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/EyeonFineArtPhotography 38