What are Graffiti Artists Trying to Say? • A History •
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Step-By-Step Instructions on Creating your own Graffiti Art
Graffiti painting, in simple terms, is a type of art that is usually done on walls or other surfaces in public places. It involves drawing or writing with spray paints, markers, or other materials. Graffiti can range from simple written words to elaborate wall paintings, and it has existed since ancient times, with examples dating back to ancient Egypt and Rome.
Graffiti is often seen as a way for artists to express themselves outside of traditional venues like galleries. Some graffiti is done legally, with permission from the property owner, while other times it is done without permission and considered vandalism.
The style of graffiti art can be very colorful and dynamic, often using bold lines and bright colors. It sometimes includes cartoon-like characters or stylized letters that are part of a unique alphabet created by the artist. - Melissa Erlenbach ©2024
Start Your own Graffiti Project
Historically graffiti art has been a form of expression to communicate messages to the public. The motivations and messages can be quite diverse, ranging from political and social commentary to the simple act of self-expression or artistic display. Here are some common themes and reasons why graffiti artists create their work:
Social and Political Commentary:
Use your work to comment on societal issues like injustice, inequality, political corruption, racism, environmental concerns, and war. It's a way to bring attention to issues that you feel are
not adequately addressed in mainstream media or discourse.
Claiming Space:
Graffiti can be a way for you to claim space in urban environments that are often dominated by commercial and governmental interests. It's a form of reclaiming public space
and making it personal or communal.
Community and Identity:
For some, graffiti is about building identity and community.
It can represent the interests, the culture, or the grievances of a particular group. It's also a way for individuals within that community to gain recognition and status.
Resistance and Rebellion:
Graffiti is inherently a rebellious act since it often involves marking property without permission. It can be an act of defiance against authority, societal norms, or the legal framework that condemns it as vandalism.
Communication and Dialogue:
Graffiti can be a form of dialogue, either between graffiti artists themselves or between the artist and the public. It can provoke thought, elicit emotional responses, or inspire other artists to respond through their own work.
Fame and Recognition:
The public nature of graffiti can also be a platform for artists to gain fame and recognition. By creating distinctive styles or placing work in high-visibility areas, artists can build a reputation both within the graffiti community and with the general public.
Artistic Expression:
Some graffiti artists are motivated purely by the desire to create and share art. They may focus on the aesthetics of their work, experimenting with lettering, colors, and compositions to produce visually striking pieces.
In summary, graffiti artists may create their work for a multitude of reasons, from the deeply personal to the broadly political. Often, their work is a reflection of their environment and experiences, serving as a visual commentary on the world around them.
Historical and Cultural Continuation:
Graffiti has deep historical roots, with examples dating back to ancient civilizations. Modern graffiti artists may see themselves as part of this tradition, continuing a long-standing cultural practice of marking walls with symbols, messages, and art.
CREATING GRAFFITI ART • STEP-BY-STEP
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Spray paint cans (multiple colors)
Permanent markers or paint pens for detail work
A dust mask and gloves for safety
Large sheets of paper or a canvas for practice
A wall or large board as your final canvas (ensure you have permission to paint on it)
Painter's tape • Drop cloths or old newspapers • A sketchbook and pencils
Step 2: Learn the Basics
Before you begin, it's important to understand the basic techniques:
Shake it up: Shake your spray cans well to mix the paint.
Spray control: Practice controlling the spray by changing the distance from the paper—
closer for detailed work, farther away for broad strokes.
Line work: Try to spray consistent lines; start and stop the spray off the
edge of your practice paper. Layering: Learn how to apply colors in layers,
allowing each layer to dry before adding another on top.
Step 3: Get Inspired
Inspiration is key in graffiti art. Look around your neighborhood,
browse online galleries, or flip through magazines.
Keep an eye out for:
Bold lettering styles
Characters or mascots
Abstract patterns and shapes
Vibrant color combinations
Step 4: Create Your Design
Sketch out your design in your sketchbook. Keep it simple for your first piece.
Focus on: Large, blocky letters if you're doing a word or name
Simple characters or shapes
A limited color palette to start
Step 5: Practice Your Design
Transfer your sketch onto your large practice sheets or canvas.
Use this as an opportunity to:
Practice your spray control
Experiment with different colors and layering
Add details with markers or paint pens
Step 6: Prepare Your Canvas
Once you're comfortable with your design:
Lay down drop cloths or newspapers to protect the surrounding area.
Use painter's tape to mask off any areas you want to keep paint-free.
Put on your dust mask and gloves.
Step 7: Paint the Background
Start with the background of your design:
Choose a base color and apply an even coat.
Add some texture or patterns if desired.
Let it dry completely before moving on.
Step 8: Outline Your Design
Use a light color to sketch the outline of your design onto your final
canvas. This will guide you as you paint.
Step 9: Fill in Your Design
Working from the back to the front:
Fill in your design with your chosen colors.
Apply the paint in layers, allowing each to dry before
adding the next. Keep the can moving to avoid drips.
Step 10: Add Details and Highlights
Once the base layers are dry:
Use your markers or paint pens to add details, clean up edges,
and incorporate highlights.
Step back frequently to assess your work and determine
if additional details are needed.
