Whether it’s a tag on a train, a mural on a building, or a throw-up on a bridge, graffiti is a way for artists to express themselves in a big and bold way. But just like a canvas, the way people see graffiti can vary — some folks view it as a masterpiece, while others see it as a mess.
Art, not anarchy
However, some cities have set aside designated areas where artists can create street art without fear of prosecution. These legal graffiti walls are like playgrounds for the wild and creative minds of the graffiti world. There are a number of cities around the world where this activity is not considered a crime at all. Some examples include:
- Berlin, Germany: Berlin has a long history of street art and graffiti, and the city has designated several areas where graffiti is allowed.
- Bristol, UK: Bristol has a thriving street art scene, and the city council works with street artists to create legal graffiti walls and commissions.
- Melbourne, Australia: Melbourne has a number of legal graffiti walls and the city council also works with street artists to create public artworks.
- Portland, Oregon, USA: Portland has a number of legal graffiti walls, and the city also has a graffiti abatement program that works with street artists to create public artworks.
- Sao Paulo, Brazil: Sao Paulo has a long history of street art and graffiti, and the city has designated several areas where graffiti is allowed.
Say it, don’t spray it
It is important to note that while graffiti is not considered a crime in these cities, it is still important to obtain permission before creating any graffiti on private property. But you probably could guess that!
On the contrary, there are some cities where creating street art without permission is considered a crime and is punishable by fines or imprisonment. Some examples include:
- New York City, USA: In New York City, graffiti is considered vandalism and can result in fines or imprisonment.
- Singapore: Graffiti is illegal in Singapore and can result in fines or imprisonment.
- Tokyo, Japan: Graffiti is illegal in Tokyo and can result in fines or imprisonment.
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Graffiti is illegal in Dubai and can result in fines or imprisonment.
- Hong Kong, China: Graffiti is illegal in Hong Kong and can result in fines or imprisonment.
Exploring the global graffiti landscape
It’s important to note that laws and regulations on street art and graffiti can vary depending on the city, state or country you are in. It’s always a good idea to check the local laws before creating any form of street art or graffiti. If it’s legal, we play and spray!
