Blog #7: Graffiti is Art

 Charles "Chaz" Bojorquez answers a question I have pondered many times myself. The question is "What is real graffiti?" and the answer from Chaz is that any drawn line that speaks about identity, dignity, and unity is art. Before reading this article, I had come to the conclusion that tagging did not fall under the category as art. However, through Chazs' personal story about his youth and coming into graffiti art, I gained a whole new understanding of tagging. 

Taking into consideration that these artists start out at a young age, I understand that there is need for them to establish their identities. This reason alone does not require any more rational in my opinion because it simple expresses that this art is not meant to be understood by others. Chaz describes how writing your name on a wall can make you immortal. This was not mentioned but the fact that these individuals have the power to chose there name is powerful as well. Even though the intent is to conceal their actual identities, they all know each other within the community. Also, many people only highlight the possible gang aspect to the tagging and how it starts conflicts, however, there are instances where tags come together and create an unintentional collaboration. Like the image below caught my eye because all of the different fonts and designs that were made, but also how they all come together so well. 

Also, like all artists, graffiti artists develop themselves over and over again. Chaz ends the piece on a an exciting note by establishing the fact that there is a lot of space for new graffiti art to emerge even though it is based on such strong history and culture.