Meet the Makers: Natalie Bollu
The Art of Vandalism
Since I’ve been working in the world of interior design for The Longest Stay, one thing that has surprised me is how art can change the beauty of a piece of designer furniture. The intricate detailing, moulding of materials and the way two patterns merge together can create stunning miniature pieces of art on any object. What I have learnt is that when it comes to art, it is important to show freedom of expression and something that shows the owners personality. This is what plays a vital role in choosing ‘the perfect piece’. With this in mind, I decided to delve into the world of graffiti to explore how it has changed the definition of art...
This is me! (Graffiti style)
After writing the description for the Traditional Painting with Graffiti on our website last month, it made me wonder, can vandalism be viewed as art? Graffiti is slowly finding its way off of the sides of abandoned buildings and into framed artwork. This traditional masters painting by Mineheart (below) has been transformed by graffiti to create a new, stylish and unique piece that immediately stands out as either modern art or vandalism. In my opinion these three simple brush strokes have turned this painting into a contemporary masterpiece.
Mineheart Traditional Painting with Graffiti
One of the most famous paintings of Jesus Christ called Fresco Jesus is considered by many to be a ‘vandalism of art’, but still remains as one of the most popular paintings of all time. An elderly patron of a Spanish church carried out a restoration on a painting of Jesus, when it was smudged, and consequently made even better (in some people’s eyes) than the original. Even though this painting was destroyed, it became world famous, and probably wouldn’t have had this success if this form of vandalism never happened.
Fresco Jesus
A few years ago the mainstream world may have seen graffiti as a criminal act, a piece of art that has been destroyed and definitely not something to praise someone over. Ever since the British graffiti artist known as Banksy came to the scene, the negative connotations of this word have dramatically shrunk. Celebrities such as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have purchased his work for a hefty price and it is displayed in galleries all over the world.
Old Skool, Banksy
Graffiti gained popularity as art on New York City subway trains in the 1970s and has continued to be connected to vandalism because it meant destroying public transport. Respect for others art however is important, and I personally feel that essentially ‘destroying’ someone else’s work without permission is a criminal act. An example of a time when the definition of art and vandalism became a debate was when graffiti artist, Uriel Landeros, went into a museum in Houston and drew on a 1929 Picasso painting that was on display. Landeros was arrested and received a two-year prison sentence, however he believed that what he did was not criminal mischief, but an artistic statement, an expression, much like graffiti art is.
Mineheart Cushion Set. Graffiti can be easily integrated into art as wall coverings, lamp shade covers or accent pillows.
Graffiti artists are becoming popular now, more so than other artists (dare I say it). Art that you would usually find in the alley of a dark street is now appearing in luxurious homes around the world and in galleries, where they are being sold for a small fortune.
Transform any room with graffiti (Image by citylifer.co.za)
If you’re feeling brave then you can create your own graffiti art by collecting old master paintings at car boot sales and then making your own design to hang proudly in your home. One thing I must warn you of however is to ensure that you don’t go destroying family heirlooms that you find in your loft!
If you decide to design your own graffiti art then send us your images via Facebook or Twitter and be sure to share any inspiring street art next time you spot some.
Yours in Design,
Natalie
