Brazil graffiti artists seen more as Van Goghs than vandals FEATURE 09/17/2010

Brazil graffiti artists seen more as Van Goghs than vandals

FEATURE

09/17/2010
SAO PAULO — Graffiti’s long struggle to be seen as valid urban expression, not vandalism, is being crowned this month with an exhibition in Brazil by international artists who not only sprayed official works but also spruced up abandoned corners of Sao Paulo.

A raid on a dilapidated factory by many of the 66 artists on the eve of the event’s opening was a celebration of the roots of graffiti, which emerged four decades ago from New York’s subway system.

It was also a triumphal declaration that, at last, they believe they have reached legitimacy as contemporary artists, a status enhanced by their provocative legacy.

“Maybe that’s why it’s an art form. Because after 40 years starting in New York and everything, it still gets people upset. And it is still getting people to think, and it’s still making people happy. It still makes people talk,” said one of the artists, Anders Rebentlovlarsen, a 25-year-old Dane.... MORE
Source:  The Daily Tribune

URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/commentary/20100917com6.html