While Graffiti and street art have been a contentious issue for many years, it has played a major role in shaping South Africa’s busiest city, Johannesburg. Some see it as an art form, while others view it as vandalism. While there is no doubt that graffiti and street art can cause property damage, the city of gold gives a compelling reason why it should not be considered a crime.
No doubt that graffiti and street art has brought life and color to the dull and uninspiring buildings and structures in Jozi. Rather than leaving walls and buildings bare, street art transformed them into vibrant works of art that engage and inspire the local community and attract tourists.
During the apartheid era, graffiti was used as a form of resistance against the oppressive regime. Activists would use the walls of the city to express their frustrations and call for change. Graffiti was also used to communicate messages between different political groups and to document events and movements.
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After the fall of apartheid, graffiti continued to be an important form of expression for many artists. The city’s streets became a canvas for artists to showcase their work and reflect on the changing social and political landscape. Many street artists used their art to critique the new government and highlight ongoing social and economic injustices.
Over time, graffiti has become an integral part of Johannesburg’s cultural identity. The city has even hosted a number of street art festivals, such as the City of Gold Urban Art Festival, which have attracted both local and international artists.
One of the most well-known graffiti projects in Johannesburg is the Newtown Cultural Precinct. This area, once a run-down industrial zone, has been transformed into a vibrant arts district that showcases the work of many street artists. The precinct is home to a variety of galleries, theaters, and music venues, making it a hub for Johannesburg’s creative community.
In recent years, the city has also recognized the value of street art and has started to commission artists to create murals and other works of art on public buildings. This has helped to beautify the city and make it a more welcoming and attractive place to live and visit.
In conclusion, graffiti has played an important role in shaping the city of Johannesburg. It has provided a platform for activists, artists, and the broader community to express themselves and engage with the city’s history and social issues. As Johannesburg continues to evolve, graffiti will likely remain a vital part of its cultural landscape.
Main Image: @MarsGraffiti
