Difference Between Graffiti and Tagging
Even though graffiti artists are causing millions of damage every year by vandalizing, graffiti is an art when performed in a controlled space. It’s sad to know that graffiti has been misunderstood by many, which is probably the main reason why only a few true graffiti artists practice the art today. Those who disagree that graffiti is worthy of being called an art are people who are aware of its true meaning. There’s a huge difference between graffiti and tagging and this article will explain every aspect in detail.
In several dictionaries graffiti is identified as a message or drawing in public places such as walls. Conversely, a tag is basically a label. If you still can’t imagine the difference of graffiti and tagging after knowing their definitions, think of graffiti as an art that aims to deliver a message and capture the public’s attention. It requires time, effort, and serious talent to come up with unique and creative graffiti works. This is contrary to tags which can be done within a few minutes by using a spray paint and is sad to say found in almost every city street nowadays.
There’s nothing more about a tag other than being a label. Symbols sprayed on a public wall with no meaning at all are perfect examples of tags. They are ugly and are basically what makes our streets look cramped and dirty. People who create tags and claim to be graffiti artists are ruining the art. They don’t fight for a cause nor practice art. Although a few taggers are a bit creative in combining colors and drawing illustrations, their measly talent is insufficient. Taggers are often a part of a street gang. They use tags to serve as borders of their territories and warn other gangs regarding their presence. Although it’s possible for a gangster to be a graffiti artist, someone who practices street art is not necessarily a gangster. They are not the same so we should pay more respect to graffiti artists who are actually expressing their thoughts through breathtaking works of art.