Is Graffiti Art?

We all know what graffiti is, don’t we? An artform that’s spray painted on walls in a public space. Graffiti is usually unauthorised and in most countries is classed as defacement of property and a form of vandalism. It therefore becomes an illegal activity. Is that fair? Well, there’s graffiti and there’s graffiti. Ranging from simple written words and poorly crafted art, which can be a blight on a city’s public walls, and gang signs marking out territory.

But then we get to the incredible murals, beautifully depicting the artist's heros, fantasy creatures, all in bright and wonderful colours. Art creations that bring beauty and life to otherwise dull areas of a city.

In 2023, A SLEEPING SAMURAI® visited New York City and photographed street art on the ”Lower East Side” and “SoHo” areas, exploring vibrant areas where people express their creativity and freedom with art. Does that mean this artwork is graffiti? Maybe. Does that make it a blight on the landscape? Nope. Actually, the artwork truly was works of art by very talented artists. Many of whom risk life and limb to bring us such mini masterpieces, not to mention that much of this painting has to be undertaken under the cover of darkness in order to avoid the attention from the local law enforcement.

And artwork from England's Banksy has made it's way to New York and can be found on the Upper West Side.

As a luxury streetwear fashion house we might be accused of showing bias to such street art. To us at A SLEEPING SAMURAI®, we think they are incredible. And so, when you next visit a city, why not keep a look out for these amazing creations.