Graffiti
Graffiti is drawings, scribbles or messages that are painted, sprayed, written or carved on walls or other surfaces. If it's done without the owner's permission graffiti is criminal damage and can also be classed as anti-social behaviour.
Some people think graffiti spoils public spaces and is unsightly but others think it's a form of art. Where graffiti is seen to make a positive contribution to the local environment (makes communities look and feel more bright and interesting) and the property owner has raised no objections the graffiti can be left. Local examples would be Banksy's pieces in and around Bristol.
Tagging is like a signature. People often tag their graffiti like traditional artists do.
Don't forget there are plenty of places where it's legal to paint and express yourself through graffiti... For more information visit:
Alternatively, you can make graffiti on-line... then you won't get your hands dirty!
Street Level DVD
These films, commissioned by Bristol City Council, tell you about the risks of getting caught, and the opportunity to get involved in legal street art projects as an alternative.
