Graffiti

#READING

#IELTS

Graffiti originally was the term used for inscriptions, figure drawings, etc., found 

on the walls of ancient ruins, as in the catacombs of Rome, or at Pompeii. But it has 

evolved to include any decorations inscribed on rocks or walls that are considered to 

be vandalism. However, some people consider graffiti - or at least some graffiti - an 

art form; in this sense, it is usually denoted as urban Aerosol Art. 

The practices of graffiti and of considering graffiti as art are generally related to 

a subculture that rebels against extant societal authorities, or against authority as 

such. 

Graffiti art is considered one of the four elements of hip-hop culture. Although 

existing previously in primitive form, it wasn't until it achieved popularity in the New 

York City subway system that it took on an extravagant artistic role. The founder or 

inspiration is noted as TAKI 183, a teenage pizzaboy who would tag his nickname in 

marker within every subway car that he daily got on. After being showcased in the 

newspaper, the intricate "tag" was being mimicked by hundreds of urban youths 

within months. With the innovation of art, and the craving to gain the widest 

audience, taggers began their work. What developed was a strict adherence to 

spraypaint, sampling foreign calligraphy, and the much anticipated mural that usually 

covered an entire subway car. The movement spread to the streets, returned to the 

railroads - where tagging was popularized by hobos - and eventually spread 

nationwide, and then worldwide, with the aid of the media and of rap music. 

@way_to_success_IELTS