Other Side of Things: Short History of Graffiti

In response to my article: Tag! Hooligans graffiti Ozone Park (Queens)

Many people would call the scribbling and drawings on the walls and doors of buildings graffiti – an act of vandalism that causes urban decay. But to the “writers” themselves and supporters of the practice, the writings on the walls are works of art.

The historical account of how graffiti as a practice began is debated within the community. It was first documented in the 1970s, when a 17-year-old named Demetrius would write “Taki 183” on New York City subway cars, walls and sidewalks all over the tri-state area, the New York Times reported in 1971.

Demetrius was following in the footsteps of JULIO 204, who was apparently one of the first to tag his name and street all over the city. After Taki 183 started writing his name, the practice of graffiti became widespread.

Many insiders of the graffiti subculture say “writers” tag to get attention. When word spread among participants of others’ efforts, it created a sort of competition to tag more and more locations and come up with more elaborate designs.

Despite measures set by the city to remove and prevent graffiti, many people still “write.” New York City is still one of the most attractive hubs as it is graffiti’s birthplace. People from all over the country and even Europe come to New York City to tag.

Not all graffiti is illegal. Property owners can commission artists to paint their walls. In Queens, artists have 5 Pointz, a large factory where “writers” must apply to paint.