The Evolution of Graffiti From the Trains to the Art World

Sofia Rudensky
Art Market Studies

About this Item

Title
The Evolution of Graffiti From the Trains to the Art World
Contributor Names
Rudensky, Sofia (Author)
Fashion Institute of Technology, State University of New York. Art Market Studies (Degree granting institution)
Joselow, Evie (Thesis advisor)
Date
2024
Degree Information
M.A. Fashion Institute of Technology, State University of New York 2024
Department: Art Market Studies
Advisor: Evie Joselow
Committee member: Natasha Degen
Abstract
The evolution and continuation of graffiti as an art form in New York City reveals a remarkable transformation from an act of rebellion to a recognized and lucrative art form. As graffiti progressed the motives and goals of the artists changed. What was once an act of defiance which produced a sort of high for these artists turned into lifelong and profitable careers. Through the exploration of the key moments in graffiti's history, such as the formation of the United Graffiti Artists collective (UGA) , the first gallery exhibitions and the rise of graffiti in auctions, illustrates the dynamic nature of the graffiti community and its capacity to adapt to changing cultural landscapes. Furthermore, the legal recognition of graffiti as a protected art form, exemplified by the 5Pointz case, has further solidified its legitimacy. Early taggers have evolved into established artists, collectors, and influential figures in the art world, driving up the market value of graffiti art. Museum exhibitions, auctions, and media attention highlight the shift of graffiti as an accepted form of art. The longevity of graffiti can be attributed to the artists' ability to pivot and mature while maintaining the core principles of "art by the people, for the people". Overall, the journey of graffiti from an ephemeral street practice to a lasting and valued form of artistic expression is due in part to the dedication of the graffiti community and its supporters.
Subject
Arts--Management
Museum studies
Keyword
5Pointz
Fashion Moda
Graffiti
Street art
Subway art
United Graffiti Artists
Rights
In Copyright
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Identifier
FIT Repository ID: etd_001022
URN/ISBN: 9798302880246
Related Materials
Also available from ProQuest
Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 86-08.
Type
Text
Thesis
Language
English
Publisher
Ann Arbor : ProQuest Dissertations & Theses,

Citation

Rudensky, S. (2024). The Evolution of Graffiti From the Trains to the Art World [Master's thesis, Fashion Institute of Technology, State University of New York]. FIT Institutional Repository. https://institutionalrepository.fitnyc.edu/item/600027
Rudensky, Sofia. The Evolution of Graffiti From the Trains to the Art World. 2024. Fashion Institute of Technology, State University of New York, Master's thesis. FIT Digital Repository, https://institutionalrepository.fitnyc.edu/item/600027
Rudensky, Sofia. "The Evolution of Graffiti From the Trains to the Art World." Master's thesis, Fashion Institute of Technology, State University of New York, 2024. https://institutionalrepository.fitnyc.edu/item/600027