Graffiti has come a long way from its origins as a subculture in the streets of New York City in the 1970s. What started as simple tags and throw-ups on subway cars has evolved into a highly regarded art form that can be seen in galleries and museums around the world. In this article, we’ll explore the evolution of graffiti styles and how they’ve developed over the years.
The history of graffiti can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where people used writing and drawings to express themselves. However, the modern graffiti movement as we know it began in the late 1960s in New York City, where young people began using spray paint and markers to create elaborate tags and murals on subway cars and buildings.
One of the earliest forms of graffiti was the “tag,” which involved writing one’s name or alias in a stylized manner. Tags were often created quickly and with limited materials, such as spray paint or markers. As graffiti evolved, so did the styles of tags, with artists developing their own unique lettering and designs.
Different styles emerged, each with its own unique characteristics and techniques. Some of the most popular graffiti styles include:
Wildstyle: This is a complex, intricate style that often features overlapping letters and shapes.
Bubble: This style is characterized by large, rounded letters that resemble bubbles.
Blockbuster: This style involves large, bold letters that are often used for political or social messages.
Stencil: This style uses stencils to create precise, detailed designs.
Throw-Up: This style is quick and simple, with blocky letters that are easy to read from a distance.
As graffiti gained popularity, artists began to create more elaborate pieces, which involved larger murals and more intricate designs. Pieces often incorporated characters or imagery, and were created with a wider range of colors and materials.
In the 1980s, graffiti began to gain mainstream recognition, with artists like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat incorporating graffiti elements into their artwork. By the 1990s, graffiti had become an established art form, with many graffiti artists exhibiting their work in galleries and museums.
Today, graffiti has made its way into the mainstream art world, with many artists exhibiting their work in galleries and museums. Some artists have even moved away from traditional graffiti materials like spray paint and markers, opting instead for more permanent materials like acrylics and oils.
From its humble beginnings on the streets of New York City, graffiti has evolved into a complex and highly regarded art form. Its evolution has been driven by the creativity and innovation of its artists, who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.
If interested in creating a mural or design with graffiti culture influence, or working directly with a graffiti artist, we are here to help guide that process. We have hundreds of graffiti artists from across the country we work with. Let’s start a conversation today!