From Subway Surfers to Gallery Hoppers: How NYC Graffiti Evolved from the 80s to the 90s
Remember those thrilling 80s movies where teenagers hopped freight trains and spray-painted their names across the city? Yeah, being a graffiti artist in NYC back then was basically a real-life action flick. Except the action came with a hefty dose of running-from-cops.
Fast forward a decade, and the scene's totally different. The 90s saw graffiti take a more artistic turn, with masterpieces popping up on walls instead of subway cars. Think Keith Haring meets hip-hop beats. So, how'd this gritty art form go from outlaw to oh-so-cultured?
The 80s: When Tags Ruled the Jungle
Imagine a New York City where every train car looked like a scribble explosion. That was the 80s, a time when "bombing" (painting on anything and everything) was king. Artists like SEEN and DONDI were the Picassos of the subway tunnels, their work a vibrant rebellion against the city's grimy underbelly.
The downside? Well, let's just say the authorities weren't exactly fans of this rolling art gallery. "Clean Train" initiatives meant buffing out anything remotely artistic, leaving a trail of frustrated taggers in their wake.
The 90s: When Walls Became Canvases
The 90s saw a shift in the wind. Maybe it was the economic boom, maybe it was artists maturing, but whatever the reason, graffiti started getting more strategic. Muralism took center stage, with crews like Tats Cru and T.A.C.C. creating breathtaking works that demanded attention, not just a call to the police.
This newfound artistic focus also started blurring the lines between graffiti and "street art." Suddenly, galleries were taking notice, and artists like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat were crossing over from the streets to the sterile white walls of museums.
Of course, the "tagger vs. muralist" rivalry remained. But hey, a little competition never hurt anyone, right? It just meant New Yorkers got treated to a wider variety of amazing art.
So, what can we learn from this graffiti metamorphosis?
Well, for one, it shows that even the most rebellious art forms can evolve. Secondly, it proves that a little recognition can go a long way. Who knew a can of spray paint could be a ticket to the art world?
But wait, there's more!
How-To Graffiti in NYC (the Legal Way, Of Course)
You might be itching to grab a spray can and hit the streets after reading all this, but hold on there, Picasso! Unless you want a starring role in your own NYPD chase scene, here are some tips for a legal graffiti adventure:
How to Find a Legal Wall: Research, my friend, research! Many cities have designated graffiti zones where you can unleash your inner Banksy.
How to Choose Your Paint: Not all spray paint is created equal. Look for water-based, eco-friendly options that won't ruin the wall (or your lungs).
How to Practice Your Skills: Nobody wants to see a wobbly mess. Practice on cardboard or canvas before hitting the big leagues.
How to Respect the Art Community: Graffiti is a conversation, not a monologue. Be mindful of existing works and don't paint over someone else's masterpiece.
How to Take Photos and Share: Document your work and share it online! Just remember to tag the location (the legal one, of course) and give credit to any inspiration you might have drawn from.
