Nowadays, just who among us haven't seen walls, streets and properties without colorful graffiti and stickers on them? Even if there are clear signs imposed by the government prohibiting such acts, you can still see a rash of vandalism everywhere. They say sticker art and vandalism defaces or destroys public or private property and there's severe punishment for it. But for artists, these pieces of street art mean more than just that. Some of these artists or shall we say "vandalists" explore their potential and creativity through this medium. They will mark and stick on almost anything to make a name for themselves and spread their message to the people through art.
Providing message by the use of adhesives and spray paints is an exhibition in the street. They may rant on sociopolitical issues or can also be an art campaign. But for whatever reason, you can see all the contradictions of the society through these exhibitions. Sticker art and graffiti emphasizes the desire to elect the road as their own personal "gallery of reference". Sticker becomes an aesthetic medium for everyone, exchangeable and reproducible, immediate and anti-commercial. Graffiti, tells us to look and discover the surprises hidden with the signs, alphabets and images that run through the infinite.
The Filipino youth nowadays have different ways of expressing themselves. It can be by mouth through democratic rallies or by hand as seen through artistic manifestations. Some refrain from speech and choose to express their unfavorable disapproval by means of art. It is again a question of social attitude. Art does not get much support from the government. Why do these artists showcase their talents on the streets anyway? Because there are not enough galleries and museums where they can display their works and taking up a course in the arts costs a lot. Fine art is limited to only few and those who have the innate ability and skills are rather trashed. These artists are left alone to do their own marketing that is why they settle on the street level imagery.
If art is not your cup of tea then you might just consider these creative stickers and graffiti as mere vandals and property damage. But if you appreciate it just like I do then it's high time that we promote awareness, acceptance and support of artists in public.
Photo credit: www.facebook.com/mhelen.shimmy/photos
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