Saturday, September 29, 2012

Freedom of Expression Graffiti, Expressed in Atlanta

Graffiti is expression. It is the artist’s mind at work. Graffiti is also a form of rebellion which is why it is connected to legal infractions, Vandalism.

Most forms of dissent have been demonized by the establishment. Yes…graffiti can be someone’s eye sore and yes…it is illegal to tag public and private property without consent. I am aware of that. 


Marching on public streets for justice is a crime without City Hall’s consent. What would we have done in the absence of Steve Biko and Angela Davis? They broke the law to express themselves. It was an expression that eventually freed people from mind and physical confinement. 

Graffiti in many ways is the driving force of Freedom – and it can be removed from the realm of nuisance if the forms of Expression are supported by a shared understanding of Rebellion and Order. This can be accomplished by the community coming together to facilitate an environment that accepts art as art…as rebellion speaking - and by the graffiti rebels adhering to the environment that’s created in the bosom of Community Development. 

 
The infamous Chris ‘CUR’ Harris has been arrested. His containment is evidence of a community and the overseers of the community not coming together. So, CUR is another rebel shackled…silenced. 

Here is a taste of Atlanta's graffiti from my Vision...from my lens...from my Freedom of Expression.