Banksy’s “Exit Through the Gift Shop” really depicts a rising type of media. Graffiti displays aren’t just pictures, but a form of expression, and as Marshall McLuhan say, an “extension of man.” Through the illustrations created by many different artists that Theirry Guetta captured, I really noticed how unique each expression of art is and the creators have really displayed some incredible art. Also, though a lot of the work is anonymous and most graffiti artists receive no retributions, it is extremely popular and appreciated in our society, which I believe reflects culture’s new desire for homemade, amateur-generated content that we can relate to.
Theirry Guetta seemingly had an addiction to something rather unconventional- filming. He captured every moment from his family life to sights in public in order to not miss a heartbeat after his mother unexpectedly passed away. At a point in his filming, he became particularly interested in filming street art, commonly known as graffiti, and followed many creators as they illegally posted their art on buildings, streets and other public places. Much of the activity takes place at night, since it is illegal. I believe this gives graffiti a unique personality of rebellion or speaking out against authority.
As Thierry traveled, he noticed Banksy’s work, which was largely recognized. Since he was anonymous it was very difficult to track him down. However, Thierry had developed a passion and didn’t give up. Eventually, he ran into Banksy on accident and trusted him, and the two traveled, Banksy with his stencils and spray paint and Thierry with his camera. Everyone knew who Banksy was, and he was just as popular as any conventional artist making a fortune for his work. The difference is Banksy wasn’t in it for the money, he just wanted to express himself. This, along with its unique, rebellious personality, is what I feel distinguishes graffiti.
Eventually, Banksy had a largely successful art show and Thierry followed in his footsteps, making a fortune from his art. Thierry’s art was created from existing art, and he put his own spin on different paintings and designs. The public loved his work. He became famous in no time, simply because of the power of the media and the interest of the public in this new and exciting type of art. This goes to show that you don’t have to be a professional in today’s culture to create something people love. All you need is a passion for something and the right media or tools to spread it to other people, and you have a chance at achieving fame.
Does the fact that the work is illegal change the meaning of the work? Absolutely. As aforementioned, it gives it a personality of rebellion, anonymous expression and revolt against authority. Graffiti artists want to put their own opinions, ideas and art on display for the public, and it is largely appreciated by many. In a sense, it is its own genre of media. Does the fact that the work is illegal weaken or empower it? I believe it empowers it. It is unique, and gives amateurs an even greater opportunity to have their work recognized. These artists, although many are anonymous, put thought into their work and it is customized and original, just like conventional art. I believe it is reflective of today’s culture of democratized media, even though this particular form is illegal.
Read more about Banksy.
Visit his website.
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