Nowadays graffiti are considered as one of the most popular and interesting forms of art we can admire in our cities. Personally, the choice between art or vandalism is quite difficult. Defining a work of art, whatever it is, as vandalism is something I cannot stand. On the other side, anyway, I can say that graffiti do not always improve the aesthetical condition of our cities and suburbs. In fact, very often, they are not aimed to adorn these parts of the city, but only to convey a message. It can be a social or political critic or simply a way to highlight the poverty of a certain district.
Taking a look to the famous Berlin graffiti what I would say is: “Yes, graffiti is a form of art. No one should judge them and people should be free to realize them whenever they want”. Rationally speaking, instead, it is quite clear that the Berlin example is not only unique but also unrepeatable. In that case, in fact, graffiti represent the expression of the population’s feelings and emotions in a specific and difficult historical moment. Artists wanted to express their sensations and their anger against what was happening around them. So the Berlin Wall became an artistic symbol of social criticism and even today no one could dare to delete them.
Today, the situation is a bit different. I really would not like to live in a country which considers graffiti as a crime, but it would be great if young people who realize them had the ability to understand when, where and why create these works of art. Covering statues and fountains with graffiti is certainly vandalism; using graffiti to smarten abandoned areas and make them more touristic is of course a great idea!