Abstract

The term “graffiti” can be applied to mankind’s earliest intentional marks on their surroundings. Graffiti and street art is only now finally becoming recognized as works of true art. And when thinking of street art in terms of its influence in the art world, there really can be no comparison to the most infamous street artist ever known: the always- anonymous English contemporary Banksy. Banksy can easily be considered as the crux of the street art world, his pseudonym most widely known above his contemporaries, and his art has helped the graffiti world make amazing strides in the recognition of the value of graffiti artists’ works.

This study examines the origins and culture of graffiti and its branching into street art, Banksy’s beginnings and work, and how Banksy has played a pivotal role in the development of graffiti into recognizable works of art.

Advisor

Siewert, John

Department

Art and Art History

Disciplines

Arts and Humanities | Contemporary Art | History of Art, Architecture, and Archaeology | Modern Art and Architecture

Keywords

Graffiti, Banksy, Street Art, Dismaland

Publication Date

2016

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2016 Melissa K. Ladd