Graffiti: An Ephemeral Art

October 17, 2012

We have all seen it around the streets and trains in Kansas City. Passersby may find those scribbles, throw-ups (the term for a quick letterform "thrown up" on a wall, usually consisting of bubble letters), and drippy tags as an eyesore; but for a beginning writer (the term for a graffiti artist), it’s a chance for him (or her) to dip their toes into an art that may be painted over (or buffed as writers call it) the very next day. 

Ever wondered why writers take the risks to do what they do? Ever wondered how long people have been writing their names on walls? Want to practice your style? MCPL has a great selection of literature surrounding the graffiti art form.

Practice daily and find your style!

• Graffiti Kings: New York Mass Transit Art from the 1970s by Jack Stewart
• Freight Train Graffiti by Roger Gastman
• Graffiti LA: Street Styles and Art by Steve Grody
• Graffiti Women: Street Art from Five Continents by Nicolas Ganz
• Autograf: New York City’s Graffiti Writers by Peter Sutherland
• Street World: Urban Art and Culture from Five Continents by Roger Gastman
• Subway Art by Martha Cooper
• Street Art San Francisco : Mission Muralismo by Annice Jacoby
• Street Artists: the Complete Guide by Eleanor Mathieson

Lacy C.
Blue Ridge Branch