Primary Colors

Ghost Sign + Graffiti

The juxtaposition of old and new is kind of fun, but I'm bummed that someone would tag a ghost sign. Now someone will probably paint it all beige. *sigh*

In praise of graffiti

I like graffiti.

I'm not advocating vandalism, really... I don't like crappy vandalism that destroys property and creates an eyesore (like the swastika that someone painted on a wall in the middle of Spencer that stayed there for months until someone finally painted over it.) But I do like the funky, colorful treats like these that pop up from time to time. Some can be very thought-provoking. Others are just fun to look at. I have no clue what these tags say, but I love the designs. I saw these on a train while visiting the University of Charleston campus. It would be interesting to know where these tags originated and the stories behind the people who created them.

To me, graffiti like this is the modern equivalent of ancient cave art. It's the purest form of art. The purpose of it is simply to say "I was here." It was created just to be seen, made by a regular person with whatever spray paint he or she had available, and maybe a quick cardboard stencil or two. No money involved, really; no fame. It's spontaneous, and fun. Go to a big city, and the graffiti is everywhere -- and a lot of it is really impressive artwork!

I think the real vandalism is advertising. I would much rather see some nice graffiti on a wall than a great big billboard for a car dealership.