To Spray Or Not To Spray
By Jackie Iuorno
Many people have mixed feelings about graffiti or street art. Some say it is a way for artists to express their feelings, while others think it is just vandalism.
Graffiti is seen scattered throughout buildings in downtown Richmond; however, many of the building's owners are not very happy with the designs painted on their walls. Done without permission, these designs often include bad language and relate protest which may not represent the building owner's views.
I think that using street art as a way to express artists' feelings while improving the look of old buildings with beatiful artwork creates a better environment for local businesses. These works of art should be done with permission and can have a positive impact on anyone who drives or walks by. This is why I call it street art and not graffiti.
Richmond celebrated street art this year with a festival. Artists gathered to beautify abandoned buildings and show what was important to them. In the future, I look forward to seeing more street art and less graffiti enhancing our City's landscape.