Graffiti Subculture & the Cyber

Instead of writing about a work of art created for, or based around the cyber, I have chosen to critique the traditional forms of street art and it’s infiltration into the cyber-using the artist, Banksy, as a primary example. Originating in ancient times[1], long before the introduction of the internet, graffiti has served as a form of art representing unique cultures and subcultures. In modern day, graffiti is usually viewed as an “underground” art form, and is well known in the hip-hop culture as a common narrative.[2] However, with the introduction of the cyber, many graffiti artists and works of art have been shared across global boundaries, which could not have been reached in a “pre-cyber” age.

Images of Graffiti distributed on the internet provide an artistic narrative and challenge the idea of “cyber- art” or art in general, as it is widely debated if graffiti is a true art form or rather destructive vandalism. The popular grafitti artist, Banksy, uses his notoriety in the art world to bring attention to, and make controversy out of prominent political and social issues. [3] Although Banksy has never revealed his true identity or his face to the public world, his easily distinguishable art has gained such a large fan base because of the internet; he is now viewed as what some would consider a social leader and activist. His artwork and his identity have become so popular that his film “ Exit Through the Gift Shop” was nominated in 2010 for an Academy Award[4]- thus further solidifying the thought that graffiti is a credible art form.

Of course, it would be unfair to say that this art does not speak for itself, but it would not have been able to reach such a large, and notably diverse audience without aid from the cyber community. With key focal points in the political, environmental, and social realms, Banksy’s art provides an original artistic narrative, which one can interpret freely whether seeing the art in person, or through the screen of their computer.

Attached is a clip from ‘ Exit Through the Gift Shop’ : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0b90YppquE

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[1] Patel, Samir. "Writing on the Wall." Archaeology . N.p., 07/2007. Web. 15 May 2011. .

[2] Farrell, Susan. "Graffiti Culture." N.p., n.d. Web. 15 May 2011. .

[3] "Banksy." N.p., n.d. Web. 15 May 2011. .

[4] Ng, David. "Banksy scores Oscar nomination for 'Exit Through the Gift Shop'." Los Angeles Times. N.p., 01/25/2011. Web. 15 May 2011. .