Are you curious about the artworks you see on the streets? These are urban arts where creativity hits the concrete and makes the walls come alive! It is essential to understand the nuances between two distinct forms or urban art – graffiti art and street art. They share a connection with urban art but they got their own vibes. Graffiti is rebellious, emphasizing personal style and lettering. Street art is diverse, with various techniques and social commentary. Nonetheless, both arts can transform city walls into canvases of imagination and inspiration – standing out as a medium of creative expression.
Urban art is like the voice of artists, loud and clear for all to see. Many people don’t recognize this artwork as art. Sometimes, people relate this art to vandalism while others see it as an act of activism. In the Philippines, it serves as a platform for artists to engage with social and political issues that bring awareness and spark conversations. But what exactly is urban art and what does it signify?
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
Urban art is nothing new. It got roots that stretch way back to the Ancient civilizations which are paintings on cave walls and carving symbols in public spots to get their messages across. Fast forward to the 20th century, graffiti burst onto the scene, especially in New York City. Legends like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring transformed the concrete into their canvas, giving way for the next wave of artists to get down. Over time, urban art evolved, embracing various styles and techniques including stencil art, muralism, and installation art.
Inspired by the hip-hop movement from the United States, the roots of urban art in the Philippines can be traced back to the late 1970s and early 1980s. Filipino youth embraced graffiti as a means to challenge societal norms, express individuality, and claim their space within the city. Today, we see various street art and murals in the country such as Between the Lines by Cyrcle and Untitled by Drew Merritt at BGC, Philippines.
MAKING NOISE AND CHANGING THE GAME
Urban art is a powerful tool for artists to shout their thoughts, feelings, and opinions on society, politics, and the environment. Believe me when I say that, indeed! It is also for activism. It challenges the status quo, sparks mad conversations, and ignites positive change. Urban art breaks free from fancy galleries and museums, reaching all people. It’s like a bridge that connects people, breaks down walls, and empowers communities to take a stand. It gives a voice to marginalized groups and underrepresented artists.
Filipino street artists fearlessly tackle topics such as poverty, environmental concerns, political corruption, and cultural heritage, urging viewers to reflect on their society and take action. Ang Gerilya is a group of street artists that takes being a Filipino as their inspiration for their artworks. They said that being Filipino is enough to mine our culture, history, and dreams for the future. They made the KKK mural found in Quezon City, Philippines and the Maki-Usisa, Makibaka, Makilahok street art found at the University of the Philippines, Dilim
THE FLAVOR OF URBAN ART THAT IS MORE THAN JUST ART
Now, let’s talk about the flavors of urban art. With bold and colorful letters, tagging is the OG style that paved the way. This is followed by stencils that took a notch that allows artists to create intricate and mind-boggling designs faster than a cheetah on caffeine. Then, there is wheat pasting where images are all over the place, like an art invasion. Installations and sculptures bring the 3D vibes. But the crowd’s favorite is the muralism. These flavors of urban art are a game-changer for communities.
Urban art breathes life into forgotten spaces, adding color and culture to them. It is a magic potion for economic growth, attracting tourists, giving locals something to be proud of, and even creating job opportunities for artists and art-related people. One literal form of street art is the famous chalk art celebration in Baguio City, Philippines. Celebrations, festivals, and events like that? Oh, they bring everyone together, creating vibes, and giving a sense of unity and celebration. It’s a beautiful revolution!
THE BATTLE FOR EXPRESSION
While urban art continues to gain recognition, it faces challenges and controversies. Keeping it real, it is not always a walk in the park. Some people see it as vandalism causing problems between artists, property owners, and the law. Questions of legality, ownership, and preservation often arise, as the impermanence of urban art raises concerns about its long-term conservation. Yes, it is still a constant and ongoing debate. That is why balancing the freedom of expression with respect for private property rights is a challenge artists need to navigate.
CONCLUSION
Urban art has evolved from a rebellious underground movement to a respected and influential art form that captivates people around the world. With its ability to challenge, inspire, and transform, it serves as a testament to the power of creativity and the invincible human spirit. The local governments, art organizations, and businesses in the Philippines have growing appreciation for the cultural and economic value of urban art. At last, it gradually changed the perception of the art form, wherein, they provide legal spaces, sponsorships, and commissions for artists. This newfound support will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role and give artists a voice, providing an avenue for artistic expression, community engagement, and social change.
