Graffiti and legalization practices: artification and mediation in urban artistic expressions in Porto Alegre/RS

Abstract

We propose a reflection that has as object of investigation the principles and techniques transmitted by the graffiti culture in the city Porto Alegre/RS and its processes of (de)territorialization. Today, this manifestation involves not only the traditional urban art community, but also diverse social actors, such as galleries and municipal administrations that contribute to add both aesthetic value and a significant economic value. How is a wide variety of pictorial artifacts (traditionally characterized as marginal) being transformed into symbolic goods with aesthetic and economic value and included in what is called urban art? By reflecting on a rapid and complex process of institutionalization, artification, and commercialization of this visual language, we hope to contribute to recent debates about the political legitimization and commodification of these artistic practices.