[hickvision]

The naivite of this belief is precious.

Yes, some people use spraypaint to make stunning, socially relevant art. Banksy is, in some sense, a graffiti artist.

But most graffiti has nothing to do with Banksy-esque social commentary. In fact, much of it is simply gang signs labeling areas of turf control. The people writing these gang sign messages are absolutely not interested in having a specific, authorized place in which to exhibit their street artwork.

[feet]

Intent of the artist does not matter, art is subjective and the production of the system of many artists layering their works over time has a beauty in itself

It's some seriously privileged classist stuff to make the claims that you're making

[hickvision]

It's seriously privileged and classist to acknowledge that much graffiti is merely gang tags advertising territorial control over an area?

It's "subjective" whether or not gang tags constitute art, rather than a danger to the community?!?

Huh?!

[feet]

Dangerous art? I wonder which groups of people called art dangerous in the past

It's crazy how some people think painted symbols present a danger to humans somehow

[hickvision]

How much do you know about street gangs? Yeah, they're dangerous! Turf markings are extremely dangerous. They aren't put there to be art, it's like calling a "caution: floor is wet" sign "art".

I'm trying not to be offensive or personal here, but I'm stunned at this take that refuses to acknowledge how dangerous and harmful street gangs are to communities. If you've ever had to live in a neighborhood with them, like I have, then I doubt this would be as much of an issue for you?

[feet]

I said the symbols. Painted symbols can easily outlast the people who painted them, painted symbols existing is not an indicator of present danger. It's bizarre how you're conflating the two

[hickvision]

>Painted symbols can easily outlast the people who painted them

We aren't talking about that sort of painted symbol, though. I'm totally mystified as to why you refuse to acknowledge the nature of gang tags. They aren't art, and aren't intended to be art. Instead, they're enciphered threats to other criminals in the area, warning them to stay out. They don't and aren't intended to outlast the people who painted them.

And most importantly, they represent real danger to the entire community. Turf wars, mistaken identity shootings, as well as gang activities like narcotics, sex trafficking, and robbery/burglary are all to be expected in areas where gangs openly declare ownership of turf with tags.