Graffiti
Art form or not graffiti is wrong when it is done on public property or on private buildings without consent. I pass train cars everyday and enjoy looking at the works that are done there. Rarely i think of the people that have to clean it up. Mineapolis law states:
"If the graffiti is on your property, it’s your responsibility to clean it up. You will be notified by mail after the graffiti is photographed. If you don’t clean it up within ten days of being notified, the City may remove or paint over the graffiti for you and you will be billed for the cost of the cleanup."
How do these people deem graffitit as ok? Why is it that they are aspired to do it? These questions must be taken into context of 'illigal" practices of graffiti. There are many answeres here. Many find it a way to connect to their environment. Or a way to spend time in an artistic/creative way. Some think of it as "sticking it to the man", while others want a reputation. Once case on campus has started to arise and its the use of sharpie markers on bikes:
"She asked him what he was doing and he muttered something like 'uh i'm tagging bikes blah blah blah gotta make a name for myself blah blah blah'. If you see a young, male, white, college student near the U looking like he's writing on bikes with a pen, he is. Go over there and bitch slap him."
Minneapolis's website clarifies and says that:
"If you see graffiti or any other vandalism in progress, call 911. If you are able to identify the persons involved and it leads to their arrest and conviction, you could qualify for a reward."
I would assume that 'bitch slappin" is going to be more of a reward than the city can probably give you. So please, if you see this behavior show him how strong yo pimp hand be...
On a lighter note, I enjoy graffiti. I believe it can add to buildings in certain areas. But it comes down to the people that either have to put the work in to remove it or pay out the nose to get it removed.
So those who do graffiti...STOP. The "man" is dead, reputations get you caught, and find a better artistc/creative outlet. That or stay/become a rail car rat because trains ship out fast and once they do its not minneapolis's problem any more.
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