Framed by some as vandalism, graffiti and street art have been featured in galleries and museums across the globe since the 1970s. Though their legitimacy may not be widely acknowledged, the cultural value of these two urban art forms is worth consideration. 

West Chelsea Contemporary's collection features the work of influential graffiti and street artists. Vibrant colors and intricate designs leave visitors in awe of the talent and creativity represented.  

What's the difference between graffiti and street art?

Graffiti and street art both use spray can paint as the medium and outdoor city walls as the canvas. Their rebellious roots and independent discourse are translated into the public space.

Though there are similarities, these are two different art forms.

Graffiti

Graffiti is more spontaneous and improvisational than street art and does not require much preparation. Often referred to as lettering, it includes stylized signatures or tags executed directly on the streets. The challenge of tagging in difficult locations such as tall buildings and subway cars is aimed at other graffiti artists rather than the public. It is a way for artists to gain recognition within the graffiti community. 

Normally created without permission, graffiti communicates to the movement's insiders. It is a way to anonymously speak to other artists without seeking public understanding. In addition to tags, forms of graffiti art include throw-ups, blockbusters, stencils, heaven, wide-style posters or paste-ups, and stickers.

WCC is proud to represent artists such as Cey Adams, who have captured the spirit of graffiti. Adams was a pioneering graffiti writer in New York City in the late 70s whose 40-year artistic journey led him into the role of founding creative director for Hip-Hop mogul Russell Simmons' Def Jam Recordings. 

Street Art

Street art is an independent visual art form created in a public location, such as the wall of a building. Aimed at public visibility, it is often commissioned and may be a mural. Most often 2-D, but sometimes three-dimensional, street art is more popular and widely accepted than graffiti art and includes out-of-place installations, video projections, yarn bombing, and rock balancing.

One major way street art differs from graffiti is that artists spend time in the studio preparing their work before placing it in the public eye. Leaving the work in the streets is separate from its creation. Street art conveys a message, engages the public, and is more popular and widely accepted than graffiti. It is often placed in highly emotive locations where locals feel strongly connected.  

WCC's collection includes silkscreens of works by the late American pop artist Robert Indiana, who found inspiration in billboards, signs, and commercial logos to create his iconic LOVE paintings.

Legal Differences Between Graffiti and Street Art

Graffiti and street art are celebrations of American culture. Legally, however, the two art forms are viewed quite differently. Street art is often commissioned. That means someone is giving permission and paying the artist to legally paint a pre-planned mural on privately or publicly owned property. Graffiti installations are more often done on a dare. Installed without permission, it may qualify as vandalism and is not meant to be understood by the public.   

Check Out Our Collection of Artwork

West Chelsea Contemporary Gallery celebrates graffiti and street art's enduring impact and influence on the cultural landscape. Located in Austin, TX, we are much more than a typical gallery. We offer world-class art in a dynamic, interactive setting with museum-quality exhibitions year-round. 

With an extensive roster of represented artists, we curate art for private events and home shows and offer:

• Private appointments
• White glove delivery and installation  
• In-home consultation
• Virtual installation

We provide expert framing services in the WCC Frame Shop and a wide selection of prints, collectibles, accessories, art toys, books, and more in the WCC Gift Shop. We also sell high-end art for higher-end clientele.

To learn more about our collection, contact us.

Photo credit: Bits And Splits / Shutterstock