By Jiya Bhatt | Apr 22, 2025
Graffiti, which was once seen as an act of rebellion and vandalism, has evolved into a global expression of art.
What was once confined to subway walls in New York City has now exploded onto the global stage, transforming urban landscapes into colorful canvases that challenge societal norms.
As graffiti culture expanded, so did its influence. Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, and Banksy turned graffiti into a global art form, taking it from the street corners and alleyways to mainstream recognition.
In the 1970s, New York City’s subway system became the birthplace of modern graffiti. Artists like Taki 183 and Cornbread tagged their names on subway cars to create a new form of communication.
Graffiti’s influence didn’t stop at gallery walls. Over time, it influenced urban architecture in cities like Melbourne, São Paulo, and Los Angeles, where artists transformed walls into art reflecting local culture and politics.
One of the most powerful examples of graffiti as cultural expression is the Berlin Wall, where artists marked the fall of 1989 with bold messages of freedom and change.
Street art is no longer just for the streets—it’s part of our culture now. It captures what people are feeling and gives artists a way to speak out in public spaces.