Uncovering the Hidden Codes of Graffiti

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Do's and Don'ts of Graffiti
   • 2.1 Rule #1: Do Not Snitch
   • 2.2 Rule #2: Avoid Religious Buildings and War Memorials
   • 2.3 Rule #3: Respect Private Property
   • 2.4 Rule #4: Never Paint on Cars
   • 2.5 Rule #5: Avoid Going Over Experienced Writers
   • 2.6 Rule #6: Understand the Hierarchy of Graffiti Styles
   • 2.7 Rule #7: Never Paint Over a Deceased Writer's Work
   • 2.8 Rule #8: Do Not Paint Over Tribute Pieces
   • 2.9 Rule #9: Don't Ask to Join a Graffiti Crew
   • 2.10 Rule #10: Learn the History of Graffiti
   • 2.11 Rule #11: Act Humble, Not Tough
3. Conclusion

The Do's and Don'ts of Graffiti

Graffiti has been a prominent form of self-expression, rebellion, and artistry for decades. While it can be an exciting and creative outlet, there are certain rules and norms within the graffiti community that every writer should abide by. In this article, we will explore the do's and don'ts of graffiti, helping newcomers navigate the scene and established writers maintain the respect and integrity of the culture.

2.1 Rule #1: Do Not Snitch

One of the most sacred rules of graffiti is to never snitch on fellow writers. The graffiti community thrives on trust and camaraderie, and any act of snitching is seen as an ultimate betrayal. Whether it's avoiding interaction with the police or refraining from exposing the identity of other writers, snitching not only jeopardizes relationships within the community but also tarnishes your reputation as a writer.

Pros: Upholding this rule fosters trust and loyalty among graffiti writers and maintains a sense of community.

Cons: Breaking this rule can lead to severe consequences such as retaliation, exclusion, and legal trouble.

2.2 Rule #2: Avoid Religious Buildings and War Memorials

Respecting the sanctity of religious buildings and war memorials is crucial in the graffiti world. Irrespective of personal beliefs or intentions, writing on such places is considered highly disrespectful. The act is frowned upon by both fellow writers and the public, as it shows a lack of sensitivity and understanding towards the significance of these spaces. Additionally, defacing religious buildings and war memorials can result in legal repercussions.

Pros: By adhering to this rule, writers demonstrate cultural sensitivity and maintain the respect of their peers and the public.

Cons: Disregarding this rule can lead to public backlash, legal consequences, and damage to the reputation of the writer.

2.3 Rule #3: Respect Private Property

While graffiti is often associated with public spaces, it is essential to respect private property. Writing on someone's house without permission is universally condemned within the graffiti community. Apart from being disrespectful, it may lead to the artwork being swiftly removed and the writer gaining a negative reputation. As a general rule, it is best to seek legal and authorized spaces for graffiti art to avoid legal complications.

Pros: Respecting private property helps maintain positive relationships within communities and promotes legal and ethical practices in graffiti art.

Cons: Disregarding this rule can result in legal consequences, damage to personal relationships, and a negative perception of the writer within the community.

2.4 Rule #4: Never Paint on Cars

Similar to writing on private property, painting on cars without permission is highly discouraged in the graffiti scene. Unless the car is visibly abandoned and poses no threat to the owner, it is considered disrespectful and invasive to deface someone's vehicle. Doing so not only damages personal property but also demonstrates a lack of regard for others and their possessions.

Pros: Upholding this rule contributes to maintaining positive community perceptions and prevents potential legal consequences.

Cons: Breaching this rule can lead to conflicts with vehicle owners, legal repercussions, and damage to the writer's reputation within the community.

2.5 Rule #5: Avoid Going Over Experienced Writers

In the graffiti world, respect is earned through experience and skill. It is generally frowned upon for novice writers to go over pieces created by more established and experienced writers. Going over someone's work without offering an improvement is seen as disrespectful and can result in animosity within the community. Beginner writers are encouraged to practice on less significant walls and progressively elevate their skills before challenging established writers.

Pros: Respecting experienced writers fosters a positive learning environment, encourages growth, and ultimately leads to better artistic development.

Cons: Going over experienced writers without justification can invite conflicts, damage the writer's reputation, and hinder opportunities for improvement within the graffiti community.

2.6 Rule #6: Understand the Hierarchy of Graffiti Styles

Graffiti art encompasses various styles, each with its own level of complexity and skill requirement. It is essential to understand this hierarchy and respect it when interacting with other writers. Throw-ups should generally go over tags, pieces should go over throw-ups, and burners should go over pieces. Going against this unspoken rule signifies a lack of understanding and respect for the craft, potentially resulting in conflicts with other writers.

Pros: Adhering to this rule allows for a harmonious coexistence within the graffiti community and encourages the growth and evolution of artistic styles.

Cons: Disregarding this rule can lead to conflicts, disputes over priorities, and damage to the writer's reputation.

2.7 Rule #7: Never Paint Over a Deceased Writer's Work

Respecting the legacy of deceased graffiti writers is paramount in maintaining the honor and tradition of the art form. Painting over a deceased writer's work is considered extremely disrespectful and is likely to provoke severe backlash from the community. Before going over any piece, it is vital to verify the status of the artist and ensure they are still alive. Failing to do so may result in severe consequences and damage to one's reputation.

Pros: Upholding this rule demonstrates empathy, reverence for departed artists, and a commitment to preserving the history and culture of graffiti.

Cons: Painting over a deceased writer's work can lead to severe retaliation, exclusion from the community, and a tarnished reputation.

2.8 Rule #8: Do Not Paint Over Tribute Pieces

Tribute pieces are dedicated to deceased graffiti writers and serve as a form of homage by their friends and fellow artists. It is crucial to recognize and respect these pieces, as they hold significant sentimental value within the community. Painting over tribute pieces is regarded as highly disrespectful and can cause unnecessary conflicts and divisions within the graffiti scene.

Pros: Respecting tribute pieces showcases compassion, fosters unity within the community, and upholds the honor of departed artists.

Cons: Disregarding this rule can lead to animosity, conflicts, and alienation from fellow writers.

2.9 Rule #9: Don't Ask to Join a Graffiti Crew

Graffiti crews are tight-knit groups of writers who share a common purpose and artistic vision. Asking to join a crew is generally seen as an unfavorable approach. Instead, gaining recognition and being invited to a crew should be based on personal dedication, talent, and a commitment to the graffiti scene. Mastery of one's style and actively contributing to the community are more likely paths to crew acceptance.

Pros: Demonstrates respect for crew traditions, genuine commitment to the craft, and a willingness to contribute without seeking immediate recognition.

Cons: Asking to join a crew without earned recognition can lead to rejection, isolation, and the perception of being an opportunist within the graffiti community.

2.10 Rule #10: Learn the History of Graffiti

Understanding the history and evolution of graffiti is essential for every aspiring writer. Educating oneself about influential artists, significant events, and the cultural context is crucial in appreciating the art form and becoming a responsible participant. Books like "Subway Art" serve as the foundation for understanding the origins of graffiti and provide valuable insights into its development. By learning the history, writers can better immerse themselves in the culture and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Pros: Learning the history of graffiti enables writers to engage in meaningful conversations, appreciate the art on a deeper level, and contribute to its legacy.

Cons: Neglecting to learn the history may result in a lack of context, unfamiliarity with key figures, and an inability to fully appreciate and respect the art form.

2.11 Rule #11: Act Humble, Not Tough

Graffiti culture often presents itself with an air of bravado and edginess. However, it is essential to remain humble and avoid excessive displays of toughness. Writing graffiti is an act of self-expression, not an invitation for violence or confrontation. Respecting fellow writers, engaging in positive interactions, and focusing on artistic growth should take precedence over projecting a tough persona. It is crucial to be a good person and maintain a positive reputation within the community.

Pros: Acting humble allows for meaningful connections, growth through collaborations, and the development of a positive personal brand within the graffiti community.

Cons: Attempting to project excessive toughness may lead to conflicts, exclusion, and a negative perception of the writer.

Conclusion

Abiding by the do's and don'ts of graffiti ensures the preservation and growth of the culture. It fosters an environment of trust, respect, and innovation within the community. By following these guidelines, writers can navigate the complex world of graffiti with integrity, leaving their mark on the urban landscape while honoring the traditions that have shaped this vibrant art form. Through understanding and observing these unspoken rules, graffiti writers can contribute to the ongoing legacy of this powerful means of self-expression.