Art, Not Vandalism - Learn to Graffiti

When graffiti artists like Banksy came onto the scene of the art world, graffiti has become more widely recognized as a form or art and expression-although for many it is still merely nuisance vandalism. As with any form of art there will always be the critics who don't understand it. But for many graffiti art is one of the newest additions to the world of fine art. Its in-your-face expressionism, highly creative depictions and often clever, witty and confronting messages have brought a new interest and perspective into the world of art and art appreciation. No wonder more people are now venturing out to learn to graffiti for themselves. With this increasing respect and recognition of graffiti as an art form, more and more people are seeking to learn to graffiti-and possibly earn money from their graffiti art. For many the way to learn to graffiti is to start from scratch and learn the basics. For others, perhaps already practicing graffiti artists, it is a matter of recognizing the differences between vandalism and art. Banksy has become well known across the world for his work as he highlights a number of social and political issues in clever and often very confronting ways. A lot of his work is also simple light-hearted humor and 'poking' fun, but you can always rely on it being commanding and attention grabbing. When new artists set out to learn to graffiti, they need to realize that a large factor in graffiti art is all about style-style in the way you depict your ideas and in the way you deliver it. While political and social satire may be a large part of Banksy's style, not all graffiti art needs to be quite so controversial or hard-hitting. As a process of starting to learn to graffiti, as long as the artist remains true to himself or herself, their own unique style will develop. Unlike the ability to learn to graffiti, style can't be learnt, it is something that comes from an individuals personality, their interests and a number of other factors that may influence and inspire their work. Graffiti art has traditionally been mostly illegal and can also be highly dangerous, the increased exposure and acceptance of graffiti as an art form has enabled it to be 'brought indoors' so to speak. An increasing amount of art galleries are exhibiting collections of graffiti art and representing a number of graffiti artists. While many may argue that this commercial acceptance of graffiti art may in turn dilute and undermine its true meaning and soul, this acceptance has also provided safer and more profitable opportunities for graffiti artists. Not one to take a biased view, but, graffiti often is art and not vandalism. The way in which it is sometimes delivered can be questionable. But, in all honesty, what could be more exciting than art happening all around us in our everyday lives? In many graffiti artists quests to learn to graffiti they have also learnt a way to merge a part of their world with ours. 

To Learn to Graffiti You Must Know About the History and Meaning of Graffiti

In order to learn to graffiti you need to know that it's about more than just learning how to tag your name. To avoid making a bad name for yourself or getting on the wrong side of other graffiti writers you've got to be committed to learn to graffiti the right way. All graffiti writers start out labeled as 'toys'. To lose that label you need to work to earn the respect of other writers as well as show respect for the meanings and history of graffiti. You will never lose the 'toy' label if you do not learn to graffiti showing respect to other writers and graffiti history. The 'toy' label can also change to mean an unskilled writer or one that is disrespectful of other writers work. If a graffiti writer doesn't bother to learn to graffiti with any kind of distinctive style or technique they will be labeled as a toy. These writers are most likely only after the fame, glory and recognition other graffiti writers receive, but they don't want to put in the effort or try to develop their skills to earn it. When starting out graffiti writing is generally tag. Writers learn to graffiti by tagging using markers, spray paint or any other writing tool. Because of this tagging is often referred to as the root of graffiti. In order to be a skilled writer you must first become proficient in your tag first. When you've decided on your tag name practice writing it. While you are just starting to learn to graffiti it's a good idea to practice in the privacy of your home on scrap paper or any other kind of found objects. Any public work you do should only happen after you've developed your own unique style and name and when you have a good understanding of how other graffiti writers operate in your area. Style is hugely important when you are starting to learn to graffiti. You not only have to develop your own unique style but you also need to show skill and technique in order to gain the respect of other writers. As mentioned before graffiti writing without style is just tag - tag is done by toys. Style is not necessarily just about your tag or the design of your pieces, it is also about being able to get high quality graffiti up in obscure and often difficult locations. The more difficult and obscure locations your graffiti is seen in, the more respect you'll earn. Even quick throw ups need to demonstrate some kind of unique style in order to become recognized and respected. If you're serious in your pursuit to learn to graffiti take the time to show your devotion and respect to other writers. Plan out your work in sketchbooks and practice privately to get your skills and style down pat. Remember, you need to practice to be able to execute a piece (short for masterpiece) in time-constrained situations.