Outside Krannert Art Museum
With any walk around campus, you are bound to spot some form of street art. They lurk behind buildings, down stairwells, and near parking lots. In recent years, this form of art seems to have peaked interest. Street art covers many forms, but is generally defined as any art developed in public space.
I believe this trend gained its current popularity with the rise of artists like Banksy- a British graffiti artist holding recognition all over the world. He is best known for his graffiti and stencil art, often using his works to make satirical, political statements. Banksy can be credited for bringing this ‘low art’ to the gallery space. Popular museums have started selling his book, and even allowed special exhibitions featuring his work.
There have always been debate over street art, questioning where to draw the line between art and crime. A lot of it is also cultural. In Barcelona, the community embraces street art as many shops will commission artists to create graffiti for their store front.
It is interesting how street art has crept into our campus scene. Though small, it still makes a unique presence.
