I’m sure that ever since people first realised that a burnt twig or a piece of chalk or a piece of red stone could make a mark, that they were doing just that, making marks! Then as soon as calligraphy or formalised ‘drawing’ had arrived, then nearly anyone who had the inclination tried to do it!
It seems just such a natural thing, to announce your presence, or to leave a message, or just make some random pattern which pleases you. Perhaps it is some sort of sense of control which marks this expression these days a graffiti; when individuals leave their mark, in pictures, patterns or words…I like and really admire the exciting and unusual and individual pieces of what in a different context would be called art.
We have just spent a few days in Reykjavik, and although it isn’t everywhere, there is a lot so street art… or graffiti!
Lois Elsden 
Neat! Here in Sarasota, Fl, they were even against the chalk art festival , and they finally ran it out of town…it’s now in Venice…
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What would you call it if it was on the side of your house or building and you didn’t ask for it? It’s not art but vandalism plain and simple. And no I’m not a reactionist old fogey!
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There was a spate of it round our village a few years ago… I bet the kids who do it never think about the cost for removing it or covering it up. They even sprayed a tree in the Bluebell Field, and it took years for the paint to disappear. 😦
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So much for social experimentation. Getting caned in school at eight years old left a lasting impression on me. I’m not resentful and have done quite good in life, thanks.
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