Graffiti is an art form that can be found all around the world. It's also not solely for adults. Kids are participating in graffiti as well. Graffiti is about creativity and self-expression, which is why it can make for a great project for children. However, before you get your child started with this activity, there are some things you should know about graffiti that will help keep them safe and happy while they're creating their own masterpieces!
Graffiti is defined as "the act of applying paint to surfaces in public places without permission" by the Oxford dictionary. There are different types of graffiti out there, but today we'll focus on two: vandalism and street art.
Vandalism is when someone maliciously defaces or destroys property to piss off or intimidate others. Street art is usually done with permission, and it often has a message behind it (like political statements). But beware--painting on walls isn't always legal! Check your state's laws before letting yours.
The History of Graffiti
Graffiti is an art form that dates back to 3500 BC, when Egyptians would use hieroglyphs to decorate their walls. However, it wasn't until the 1960s in New York City that graffiti became a national phenomenon.
After World War II, people in New York were upset with how quickly the city was being rebuilt. The city was unrecognizable, and many people felt like they no longer belonged there.
As a result, many people began to tag buildings with aggressive messages--mainly directed at the police or government officials who were trying to remove them from their homes. Graffiti exploded in popularity during the 1970s because of its cultural significance.
What Is Graffiti?
There are many different definitions of graffiti, but today we'll focus on two types: vandalism and street art. Vandalism is when someone maliciously defaces or destroys property to piss off or intimidate others. Street art is usually done with permission, and it often has a message behind it (like political statements). But beware--painting on walls isn't always legal! Check your state's laws before letting your kids get involved.
Graffiti culture it's all over the world, and it's not just for adults. Kids are getting into graffiti too, but they need to understand some things first. For instance, there are different types of graffiti--vandalism and street art--, and both have consequences for those who do them without permission. If you want to let your kids experiment with this art form, make sure they follow these safety rules!
Why Do People Do It?
People do graffiti for many different reasons. Many artists create artwork that is seen in public spaces and, although it is technically illegal, they are doing so to express themselves. Some people write their names on the walls just to make their presence known. Others might do it because they enjoy being able to see their work every day on the way to school or work.
Kids often get involved with graffiti because it's cool and creative, but some kids get into more serious vandalism that has consequences! That's why parents need to know the risks of getting started with this art form.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to express yourself with graffiti art without breaking the law. If your child wants to be a "vandal," make sure they know what they're doing before letting them out on their own! There are projects you can do together at home or in the classroom where kids can explore graffiti while learning about safety measures and techniques. Without knowing it, your child could become an artist!
Types of Graffiti
Vandalism is malicious graffiti on someone else's property. Street art is graffiti with permission and usually has a message behind it.
There are different types of graffiti out there, but today we'll focus on two: vandalism and street art. Vandalism is when someone maliciously defaces or destroys property to piss off or intimidate others. Street art is usually done with permission, and it often has a message behind it (like political statements). But beware--painting on walls isn't always legal! Check your state's laws before letting your kids get involved with graffiti.
How You Can Get Involved
If you want to get involved in graffiti, but you're not totally sure how to do it, it's easy to learn! On YouTube, you can find the best tips to get started. You can watch tutorials on how to paint different styles of graffiti.
There are also books that teach kids the basics of graffiti. There are books available in the library, for traditional people.
If you want something more practical, your city or town probably has a graffiti festival. This type of event generally offers workshops for children interested in learning this art form.
Most importantly, make sure parents are involved with their children's graffiti journey. Kids need help understanding what they're doing and why--especially if they're going out and painting something without permission!
How To Get Started Graffiti
If you want to get your child started with graffiti, there are a few ways to go about this. The first is by helping them create their own sketch and then letting them paint it on paper or canvas. You can also use markers or pastels. You could even let them paint graffiti on the ground using sidewalk chalk! Try some of these ideas to pique your child's interest and get inspired.
Resources for Kids Who Want to Create Their Own Graffiti Art
If you're a kid who wants to create graffiti art, there are some great resources available for you! MIT provides a free online graffiti course that teaches the basics of art and graffiti. They are interactive and engaging lessons, so your child will not have time to get bored.
Alternatively, if you want to make a mural with your child, there are plenty of programs across the country where you can get in touch with local artists. Allston Skatepark in Boston is an example of a program that does this. For a small fee, your child can paint a piece of art or learn how to do it from a professional street artist at the skatepark.
Finally, one website provides all the tools and materials you'll need for creating art--from spray paint kits to stencils! This project is perfect for budding artists who want to get started right away.
Safety Tips For Kids Considering Graffiti as a Hobby or Project
Whether your children are interested in this hobby or school project, there are some things they should consider before starting.
Graffiti is permanent. That means that once they draw on something, it's there forever. Be sure that you're okay with the idea of your kids having something they drew on your car for years to come.
It can be dangerous. Spray paint can be very harmful to kids' health if inhaled in large quantities (i.e., if it explodes). Some colors of spray paint also contain lead, which can cause issues like brain damage and hearing loss when ingested or inhaled in large quantities, so be careful not to let them drink the paint!
You'll need a space to work with spray paint in order to avoid accidents. If you're planning on letting them do graffiti at home, then make sure they have their own designated space that's well ventilated and away from any furniture or furnishings that could be ruined by an accidental spill of paint.
Conclusion
Graffiti is an urban art form that has incredibly gained popular force all over the world. It's also one of the riskiest forms of art for kids to get involved in, but if you know what you're doing and take some precautions, it can be a great way for kids to express themselves and learn about art!
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