Abstract
Graffiti has historically been linked to crime, violence, and gang activities. The ‘broken window theory’ is one of the major theoretical explanations against the presence of Graffiti in the public space. Simply put, the theory holds that if a broken window is left unfixed it often leads to more grave acts of crime and violence. Thus, an immediate eradication of graffiti is necessary to prevent the proliferation of violent crimes. In this study, with a focus on the Durban context, I argue against this notion of criminality often attached to the graffiti community. I insist that this aura of criminality stems from the lack of understanding of the disruptive, transformational and non-conformist nature of graffiti. My argument is thus framed around two major research questions: (a) Is the aura of criminality often attached to graffiti tenable in Durban? (b) What motivates graffiti creation in Durban? Using a qualitative research methodology, the study employs snowball sampling to engage with five active graffiti artists in Durban. Thematic analysis of the collected data reveals that while graffiti is seen as a symptom of criminality by some, others appreciate it for the beauty it brings to the public. It is thus important to account for the place of context and subjectivities in the meaning-making and acceptability of Graffiti.
Presenters
Kehinde Christopher AdewumiPostdoctoral Research Fellow/ Postgraduate Coordinator, Fine Art and Jewellery Design, Durban University of Technology, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
GRAFFITI, DURBAN, CRIMINALITY, BROKEN, WINDOW, THEORY, URBAN, ART
