History of Graffiti

Graffiti is writing or drawings made on a wall or other surface, usually without permission and within public view. Graffiti ranges from simple written words to elaborate wall paintings, and has existed since ancient times, with examples dating back to ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire.

• Graffiti is a form of self expression

• Graffiti is a way to protest social issues

• Graffiti can honor or memorialize important people in a community

• Graffiti is a way to mark your presence and identity

• Graffiti can be seen as a way to rebel against societal norms

One of the most famous artists in the world began his career as a graffiti artist here in NYC. One of his paintings recently sold for 110 million dollars.

Untitled, 1982, by Jean Michel Basquiat

Banksy's work is among the most recognizable images in the world today. He travels the world to create his work- no one ever knows where his work will appear, and no one knows who the artist is or what he looks like. What do you think the message of this work is?