Banksy, a British graffiti street artist who is widely-known around the globe, created one of his masterpieces behind the Urban Outfitters in Westwood. There is a controversy because the Westwood community is considering painting over the Banksy artwork, and many UCLA students want to preserve this piece of art. Do you consider Bansky's graffiti as art, or as vandalism? What are your thoughts?
Vandalism...how hard is it to just graffiti on some huge board or something like that? There's no reason to damage property like that, and he or she shouldn't be rewarded for such an action. It just doesn't make sense to me why someone wouldn't just use a personal wall, board, etc. to create their artwork. Maybe there's something special about doing it on someone else's buildings or belongings though?
Although I agree with both Cindy and Christiana that this artwork should be preserved, I can also see why some people might want to pain tover the artwork. Graffiti as an artwork is being more respected now, but there are still a lot of people who consider it as a low-brow/low art. I personally appreciate all forms of art, but I must admit that some forms of expression I have trouble understanding (hence appreciating). I think it should still be respected through preservation, but I wanted to point out that some people may not appreciate it as much as those who do.
I am so glad that someone is talking about this. Anyways, I see it as an honor just as Cindy said. I am famiiar with the art but did not know how elusive the artist is and that he is from Europe. It being that we are in the US and happen to hold a piece of art done by Banksy, is precious. I think this relates to the Screaming men, in how art is provocative. The "Shooting Crayola Boy" is stimulating the diagloue between what is art and what is garbage.
I think it is a work of art. It is such an honor that Banksy chose to come here, and I feel it is integral to preserve such work. Not only will there be more visitors, but everyone can appreciate the beauty that is Banksy's art!
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