How a graffiti-covered skyscraper became LA’s newest landmark

An abandoned, graffiti-covered luxury complex in Los Angeles has become a site for social media stunts and triggered debate over the value of artistry versus vandalism. The complex, which is currently known as LA’s graffiti tower, is quickly becoming a nuisance for the city. The origins of ‘LA’s newest landmark’ Before capturing the world’s attention, Oceanwide Plaza languished in Los Angeles for years, abandoned by its original owners. The complex was supposed to house a hotel and luxury condominiums, and it was expected to cost China Oceanwide Holdings, the Hong Kong real estate developer behind the project, roughly $1 billion to finish, said Business Insider. However, the company paused the project in 2019 after running out of money, leaving the unfinished towers abandoned — until now. The buildings are close to the Crypto.com Arena, the home of the Los Angeles Lakers and the location of the 2024 Grammys. Since the company deserted the project, the towers have attracted scores of graffiti artists who are tagging large portions of the 53-story buildings, as well as BASE jumpers who have filmed themselves parachuting off the complex. The spray-painted tags received global attention in January when the Grammy Awards were held across the...