Manuel is a passionate, driven, and techsavvy AV technician, 
It is widely acknowledged that art is highly subjective and truly lies in the eye of the beholder. Often, differences of opinion merely reveal individual preferences, and it is generally agreed that these personal tastes should not override the freedom granted to the artist and their work. However, the issue of graffiti is one of the few situations that gives rise to heated debate and contention over where these freedoms begin and end.
Historically, graffiti has been portrayed in a negative light, with artists often being individuals with criminal records or gang affiliations. This is likely the reason for such a pessimistic outlook. Nowadays, graffiti is seen in a different light – as a potentially more accepted and positive form of self-expression. However, there are limited venues and settings where this “socially acceptable” form of art Landscape Painting Advise For Watercolor Artists - One of the most significant challenges beginners face with any form of art is the ability to truly connect with the creativity that resides within them. It can be difficult initially to let go and create from your inner self. Learning techniques is crucial, but there should be a point where you begin to draw… can be expressed, and often, it is placed in areas deemed inappropriate and unsuitable by society. This raises the question: how can freedom of expression and urban aesthetics/social acceptability coexist? This issue is deeply rooted in the legality of property protection, but when crucial freedoms of expression and commentary are abused from either perspective, and encroach on undesired or unproductive spaces, steps must be taken to regain lost ground. On the side of expression, addressing each situation on a case-by-case basis rather than treating graffiti as a “gateway crime” and all its perpetrators as hardened criminals is key. In terms of prevention/removal, ensuring that the issue is addressed promptly, responsibly, and, perhaps most importantly, locally is essential.
Many city officials are now turning to advanced measures and methods to ensure their public spaces are not marred by unwanted and illegal graffiti. (For example, there are now audio monitoring systems that can detect the sound of an aerosol spray can, enabling law enforcement to apprehend potential “graffitists” in the act.) These actions are taken primarily to preserve property values and uphold the rule of law in the area. However, why not view these acts as more than mere vandalism and even consider the personal expression they represent as essential for healthy dialogue and dissent? If this practice were more openly discussed and guidelines for different intentions developed, the detrimental aspects of graffiti might dissipate, allowing new ways of appreciating its value and beauty to emerge.
In the current situation, where the removal of what many perceive as a blight is deemed necessary, who should the city turn to for ensuring property protection for its citizens? If financial and workforce requirements can be adequately met, a city could establish a dedicated task force focused on beautification, similar to those in San Francisco or Los Angeles. Alternatively, there are do-it-yourself approaches, such as special coatings or removal chemicals, available through online research. Both are valid ways to address the issue, but why not return the money to the people and invest in something rooted in the city itself as a form of local economic development?
Various local businesses across different sectors can tackle this issue, including professional painting companies. Contracting with a local professional painting company could essentially “kill two birds with one stone.” Firstly, prevention and response efforts can support the local economy. Most commercial painting companies possess the knowledge, technology, and equipment to effectively remove graffiti and leave no trace upon completion.
In reality, let’s transform this “fight” between the city and its “unruly hooligans” into a means of supporting local businesses and converting the city into a genuine work of art. We can view this situation in two ways: one, a strain on the city’s budget, or two, an investment back into the city. While it might take money away from tax revenues, it also offers an opportunity for something that could be a vital part of social values and democracy to be channeled productively and become part of our cultural development legacy.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME
