Graffiti: An art form between legality and rebellion

Graffiti is an often-discussed topic within the legal system and art community, with many debating a form of artistic expression and cultural connection built by minorities, and others expressing the legal implications of its part in vandalism. “In the topic of graffiti and talking about marginalized communities, I think it’s important to recognize that art can be many different things, and it may not be accepted at first or seen as art, but it’s important to see these communities and see these outlets as something with value,” said Cayla Ritchy, an employee and teacher at Open Hearts Art Center and UNCA graduate. According to Ritchy, there will always be naysayers who don’t consider certain expressions art, or at least an art that should be valued, and a large part of art is to express opinions and ideas that don’t always align with society. “I would define graffiti as art that is very spontaneous and takes up a large public area,” Ritchy said, “it’s people expressing what they need to express in a very visceral and spontaneous reaction.” According to Ritchy, the art and style of graffiti is incredibly broad and can encapsulate both legal and illegal works of public art....