From its humble beginnings as a form of rebellion and expression on the streets of New York City in the 1970s, street art has evolved into a global phenomenon that encompasses a wide range of styles and techniques. Today, you can find street art in cities around the world, from intricate murals that cover entire buildings to small stenciled images on sidewalks.
Graffiti, the most common form of street art, has a long and storied history. It first emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a way for young people in urban areas to express themselves and leave their mark on the world. At first, graffiti was seen as a nuisance and a blight on the urban landscape, but over time, it began to be recognized as a legitimate form of artistic expression.
One of the earliest and most influential graffiti artists was the mysterious figure known as Cornbread, who started tagging his name all over Philadelphia in the late 1960s. Other early pioneers of graffiti art included Taki 183 in New York City, who began tagging his name on subway trains in the early 1970s, and Phase 2, who helped to develop the wildstyle of graffiti lettering that became popular in the 1980s.
As graffiti art became more popular and widespread, artists began to experiment with new techniques and styles. Instead of simply tagging their names, they started creating elaborate murals and images that covered entire walls. Some artists, like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, even went on to achieve fame and success in the mainstream art world.
Today, street art has evolved far beyond its origins in graffiti. Artists around the world are using the streets as their canvas, creating stunning works of art that challenge our perceptions and provoke thought. Some street artists, like Banksy and Shepard Fairey, have achieved worldwide fame and recognition for their work, while others remain anonymous, creating art for the love of it rather than the fame.
Art prints of street art have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people look for ways to bring the vibrancy and energy of the streets into their homes. Many street artists, recognizing the demand for their work, have started selling prints of their murals and paintings online, making it easier than ever for fans to own a piece of street art history.
One of the most popular forms of street art prints is the limited edition screen print, which allows artists to reproduce their work on paper in a way that captures the bold colors and intricate details of the original piece. These prints are often signed and numbered by the artist, making them highly collectible and sought after by art enthusiasts.
In addition to prints of their work, many street artists also sell other merchandise, such as T-shirts, stickers, and posters, featuring their designs. These items allow fans to support their favorite artists and show off their love of street art in a tangible way.
The rise of street art as a global phenomenon has not been without controversy. While some cities have embraced street art as a way to beautify public spaces and promote creativity, others have cracked down on graffiti and street art, seeing it as vandalism and a threat to public safety.
In recent years, however, attitudes towards street art have begun to shift. Many cities now have dedicated street art districts and festivals, where artists are invited to create murals and installations in public spaces. These events not only bring communities together and promote local artists, but also help to revitalize urban areas and attract tourists.
As street art continues to evolve and expand, it is clear that this once-underground movement has become a powerful force in the art world. Artists are no longer confined to galleries and museums – they are taking to the streets to create bold, thought-provoking works that challenge the status quo and inspire us to see the world in a new way.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of street art or a newcomer to the scene, there has never been a better time to explore the world of art prints and discover the beauty and creativity of street art. With a growing number of artists selling their work online, it’s easier than ever to find the perfect piece to add a touch of urban flair to your home or office.
************
Want to get more details?
Art Locale
https://www.artlocale.org/
Ankara, Turkey
Art Locale digitizes and sells original work by local artists on high-quality, handmade canvas. Our goal is to present you with a carefully selected assortment of top-notch local art from across the globe. Enhance your living space with the finest art the world has to offer.
