They Call it Street Art

Summary

An individual from rural Germany, initially skeptical about the artistic value of graffiti and street art, encounters and reconsiders their opinion after seeing a wall of graffiti in Berlin and acknowledges the broader scope of street art through the work of other photographers.

Abstract

The author, who lives in the countryside of northern Germany, has never appreciated graffiti as a form of art, often finding it less appealing than natural elements like a leafless tree. Upon visiting Berlin for the first time to purchase a bicycle for their husband, they inadvertently come across a display of street art that challenges their preconceived notions. This encounter prompts a reevaluation of their perspective on street art. The author also directs readers to explore further examples of street art through the lens of other photographers and storytellers, inviting a deeper engagement with the subject and suggesting a shift in their appreciation for this form of urban expression.

Opinions

The author initially does not consider graffiti to be art, finding it unattractive and not beautifying.
Street art is contrasted with natural beauty, with the author expressing a preference for the latter.
The author's perspective begins to shift after an unexpected encounter with street art in Berlin.
There is an acknowledgment of the existence of interesting street art beyond their immediate experience, as evidenced by the mention of other photographers' work.
The author encourages readers to explore the work of other photographers and storytellers, indicating an expanded curiosity and respect for the genre.

Is this art? Like real art?

I name it graffiti. Not more or less. I’ve never seen beauty in such writings on buildings, walls, or other landmarks. Maybe I’m just different but such messages sprayed on simply don’t beautify an area for me.

I’d rather stare at a tree without leaves.

But Mary Chang did not ask for photographs of trees. She asked for street art in our surroundings. Living in the countryside somewhere in northern Germany, I just did not find street art.

I live 5 kilometers away from the closest residential area.

But today, I did my first outing to the city of Berlin. Born in Germany, I’ve never seen the capital before. I wasn’t doing a city tour but just visited a specific shopping center to buy my husband a bicycle.

This was when I passed this wall of graffiti. Or street art.

If you’re interested in more interesting street art, check out Vidya’s page.

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WRITING PROMPT RESPONSE

They Call it Street Art

April Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Graffiti & Street Art”

Is this art? Like real art?

When Man Respects Nature

April Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Graffiti & Street Art”