Miami‘s Graffiti Style Gods

Summary

The transcript delves into the world of graffiti through the lens of seasoned street artists. It explores the risks, thrills, and personal motivations behind their actions, highlighting the contrast between graffiti as art and vandalism. The artists reflect on their experiences with law enforcement, incarceration, and the changing landscape of graffiti culture. From illegal bombings to the rise of more commercialized street art, the script paints a vivid picture of the evolution of graffiti in Miami, blending the rebellious spirit of the streets with its growing acceptance in mainstream culture.

Takeaways

• 😀 Graffiti, for some, is seen as a form of vandalism rather than art, with artists often viewing it as a personal expression or thrill-seeking activity.
• 😀 Graffiti artists take significant risks, including legal consequences and physical danger, as part of their pursuit, with encounters with the police and even shootings being part of the experience.
• 😀 The act of graffiti bombing becomes addictive, with artists constantly seeking new places to tag, driven by the thrill and recognition from peers.
• 😀 Many graffiti artists, particularly those from the past, value the rush of doing illegal graffiti in secret locations, comparing it to a sense of invincibility.
• 😀 The graffiti subculture often includes a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among artists, with legendary figures like Crome and Crook influencing many.
• 😀 Artists like Crome are viewed as pioneers in the scene, with their bold and widespread tagging efforts gaining admiration despite the risks.
• 😀 Graffiti artists are often misunderstood by the general public, who fail to grasp the motivation behind the act, such as the desire for recognition rather than monetary gain.
• 😀 In certain neighborhoods like Wynwood, graffiti has become more accepted and commercialized, with murals being created legally and even featured in tourist attractions.
• 😀 The commercial rise of graffiti has led to both opportunities and controversies, with brands using street art for advertisements while artists see it as an opportunity for expression.
• 😀 Graffiti as a medium has evolved with technology, with social media allowing artists to share their work widely and gain recognition in ways not possible in previous generations.
• 😀 While graffiti has become more mainstream in certain areas, there remains a deep sense of rebellion and authenticity for many artists who prefer to maintain its roots in the streets.

Q & A

Why does the speaker reject being called an artist?

The speaker rejects being called an artist because they don't view their graffiti as an art form. They consider it vandalism and describe the act of graffiti as risky and addictive rather than a legitimate artistic pursuit.

What is the speaker's view on the thrill of graffiti?

The speaker describes graffiti as an addiction, comparing it to the thrill of riding a motorcycle. The excitement comes from the adrenaline of evading law enforcement and seeing their name spread across various locations.

How does the speaker describe their experiences with law enforcement while doing graffiti?

The speaker recounts tense encounters with law enforcement, including moments where they were nearly arrested or shot by police. They mention hiding under cars for hours to avoid being caught, showcasing the dangerous and risky nature of graffiti.

What is the significance of MSG Crew in the speaker's story?

MSG Crew, particularly Crome, is highlighted as a major influence on the speaker. The crew was known for their innovative and widespread graffiti, which made a lasting impact on the graffiti scene in the 90s.

How does the speaker view the commercialization of graffiti?

The speaker expresses disdain for the commercialization of graffiti, noting that corporate entities now use street art to sell products. Despite this, they believe that graffiti will continue to thrive, even if its environment changes.

What does the speaker mean by graffiti being like a 'sickness'?

The speaker likens graffiti to a sickness because it becomes an obsession. They describe a compulsion to tag everything they see, whether it’s a pole, sign, or wall, and express how it’s programmed into their mind to keep doing it.

How does the speaker justify graffiti in relation to public property?

The speaker justifies graffiti as a form of expression against commercial advertising. They argue that while big corporations can use public spaces for advertising, graffiti artists have the right to use these spaces to express their own opinions.

What is the speaker's perspective on the transformation of Wynwood in Miami?

The speaker describes Wynwood's transformation from a neighborhood associated with crime to a mecca for graffiti art. They note how it has become a place where artists can paint freely without fear of police interference, and how its graffiti has now been commodified for tourism.

What role does technology play in the evolution of graffiti, according to the speaker?

The speaker mentions that the rise of the internet and social media has made graffiti more accessible, allowing artists to share their work widely. They contrast this with the past, when graffiti artists had to physically go out and find spots without the ease of digital exposure.

How does the speaker feel about their own legacy in the graffiti world?

The speaker feels that they have made a significant impact on the graffiti world, particularly in Miami, and that their work has been influential. Despite the risks and their declining health due to cancer, they remain dedicated to graffiti and continue to see it as an integral part of their identity.