text N1 Journalism: The street art

Street art embodies all artistic expression taking part in the city. It´s roots sprung from the graffiti culture started in New York during the seventies, where Harlem trains were being spray painted just as did any other neighborhood wall, populated by mostly Puerto Rican vicinities whose motto became “Viva Puerto Rico libre”. Street art mixes stencils and tags but does not have it’s own style or language, like hip-hop graffiti does.
In the last decade the planet has witnessed a globalization of this movement. Some of the mayor metropolises around the world have come together through festivals or tours being held by the same people who practice and promote the art. Some of the cities involved in the movement are Madrid, Berlin, New York, Mexico DF and Sao Paulo.
One of the key elements is the great impact of congregation that causes within the city. Because the art is being exposed on city walls all audiences can admire it, even those who normally would not be interested in being in contact with street art can see these modern age masterpieces.
Besides having creativity, each artist must be aware of the legality issues that come into play whenever performing the art. It should be stressed that most people involved in the movement are art students, steering away from any gang or vandalism influences.
The true influences in street art can vary nowadays. Utilizing in formalist art with abstract impressionism and even protest art, you get a mix that crystallizes an outcome of extraordinary creativity.
With the same variety as it´s influences, the instruments and tools used for street art are many. Not limiting to just the use of spray cans; you can also include paint, stickers and any other material that comes to mind to better and enrich that piece of art making it more original.
For the majority, Quito has a clear focus on graffiti with a more hip-hop style. But in recent years different initiatives have brought out a more pure concept of street art, mainly with the latest festival, DETONARTE.