METAPHORIC MODELING AND GRAFFITI TEXT

Introduction to Graffiti Text

The term "graffiti" evokes images of vibrant colors, bold lettering, and an element of rebellion. However, what does graffiti truly signify? Most dictionaries define graffiti as "writing or drawings that are scribbled, scratched, or painted on walls or other surfaces, usually without permission and often regarded as vandalism." The Oxford Dictionary describes it as drawings or writing found on walls and similar surfaces in public areas. [1]

According to Vocabulary.com, graffiti refers to words, phrases, or images rendered in public spaces, like on building sides or walls. [2]

The Cambridge Dictionary characterizes graffiti as "words or drawings, particularly those that are humorous, rude, or political, displayed in public places." [3]

From these definitions, it can be inferred that graffiti serves as a medium through which individuals convey messages distinctively, capturing people's attention effectively. Many artists view graffiti as a potent form of self-expression, facilitating the communication of ideas, emotions, and narratives through visual art.

Different types of Graffiti

Graffiti has different types. Fundamental types are tags, throw up and pieces.

Graffiti has developed from single tags to the complicated wildstyle pieces.

A throw-up is an artist’s name in a sort of bubble style that is done quickly and in a very large scale.

Wild style-letters with arrows, loose bits, over the top swing and sometimes a part of the letter that overlaps the other. Wild style is even more illegible when the letters are connected. [4]

The Role of Graffiti

Graffiti positively impacts society by using visuals and unique messages to explore metaphoric modeling in advertising. Through graffiti art, artists present symbolic language and visual metaphors. This allows insight into how advertisers employ similar strategies to shape consumer perceptions and behavior, making it an effective tool for engaging the public.

Connection between Metaphoric Modeling and Graffiti Text

Metaphorical modeling incorporates graffiti by utilizing metaphorical language that forges mental connections between products or brands. Graffiti artists often leverage this concept to express unique ideas and emotions in a compelling manner.

As stated by Omniverse, "A visual metaphor is an image intended for the viewer to interpret as a symbol for something else. Visual metaphors can range from obvious to subtle, humorous, or biting, forming a nexus of imagery that artists have utilized throughout history to convey information without words." [5]

How Advertisers Use Metaphorical Modeling in Graffiti

Advertisers adopt metaphorical modeling to promote products imbued with symbolic significance. For instance, a perfume commercial might depict a confident woman, metaphorically linking the fragrance to attractiveness and empowerment. This can create a mental association in the viewer's mind, increasing the likelihood of purchase. In summary, metaphorical modeling is a powerful technique employed to shape consumer perceptions and influence behaviors. Understanding how graffiti artists utilize this concept can provide valuable insights into advertisers' strategies.

Brief History of Graffiti Text

History of graffiti can be traced back to the earliest days of human civilization, existing in various forms throughout time. Initially, "taggers" were associated with street gangs that sought to mark their territory. Individuals worked in groups called "crews" and referred to their activities as "writing." Graffiti term was first popularized by The New York Times and novelist Norman Mailer. In the early 1970s, art galleries in New York began acquiring graffiti. However, alongside its recognition as an art form, John Lindsay, the mayor of New York at the time, initiated a campaign against graffiti. By the 1980s, it became increasingly difficult to write on subway trains without detection, prompting many established graffiti artists to shift to painting on building roofs or other canvases. The earliest wall drawings date back thousands of years to cave art, while the Ancient Romans and Greeks inscribed their names and satirical poems on structures. Modern graffiti emerged in Philadelphia in the early 1960s, reaching New York by the late sixties. The movement truly gained momentum in the 1970s, with individuals marking buildings across the city with their names or "tags." During the mid-seventies, subway car windows were often obscured by the extensive spray paintings known as "masterpieces". [6]

What is the Future of Graffiti

The future of graffiti and its artists remains promising, as it conveys social and political messages in captivating ways that resonate with many audiences. Nicholas Ganz explains, "Today, graffiti thrives as a diverse art form, encompassing everything from intricate murals to stenciled messages. From the favelas of Rio to the walls of Berlin, it continues to evolve, expressing individual creativity and challenging social norms". [7]

In conclusion, graffiti is not merely a collection of words on a wall; it represents an art form that reflects the diverse experiences and perceptions of its creators.

References:

1. Oxford.Dictionary https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/american_english/graffiti
2. Vocabulary.com https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/graffiti#:~:text=%2Fgr%C9%99%CB%88fiti%2F,the%20property%20where%20it's%20left.
3. Cambridge Dictionary https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/graffiti
4. Graffiti-cookbook (Pages 2 to 17)
5. Omniverse.com under word Graffiti
6. Britishcouncil.com under word Graffiti
7. Graffiti World: Street Art from Around the Globe" by Nicholas Ganz under word Graffiti