There was a building in Queens* that you could see from the 7 train that had beautiful graffiti. The colors were vibrant, the portrait of Hendrix was spot on and to be honest, it was one of the highlights of the borough. And then there’s the graffiti in Santiago, Chile.
I think we can all agree on the message here, but I’m not sure that the statement belongs on the facade of the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes.
Such is the contrast of Santiago. The architecture is beautiful and the Andes Mountains tower above the city. Unfortunately, at every turn someone has scrawled something meaningless.
Basura = Trash can. Perhaps this is a public service announcement?
It’s ugly for sure, but the most disappointing thing about the graffiti is that it’s everywhere and completely pointless. It’s not art like in Toronto, but rather an eyesore on the city of Santiago.
When I remarked about the poor graffiti to other travelers who had been to Santiago, they were surprised. They had seen beautiful street art and had seen nothing like these photos. Santiago must have a dramatic split between works of art and something like this…
Even the trees could not escape.
Actually, this one isn’t bad.
It was a shame that so many of the beautiful monuments, museums and public spaces were treated as a doodle pad for the city’s least skilled artists.
Santiago was a badass city and we walked all around, but I can’t say that we observed any street art beyond the scribbles that I photographed. I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention that the other thing that stood out in Santiago was the high number of couples laying on grass making out. This is not as easy to photograph, but trust me, it was happening everywhere. Young, old, whatever, it was go time. Santiago: The City of Scribbles and PDA. I think it’s time for an updated slogan, don’t you?
*The 5 Pointz graffiti building in Queens was painted over earlier this week and is scheduled to be torn down and replaced with condos. There will be space set aside for curated graffiti, but the original building still must be demolished.
What a shame. graffiti is art when done well. perhaps arts education needs more funding in Santiago. and as for 5 Pointz in Queens, what a loss.
The thing is that people tell me they’ve seen good street art in Santiago, and I’m sure it’s there. But there is just so, so much that’s poorly done.
What’s wrong with couples making out in public?? In the States, you can barely see anyone even holding hands on the streets; public affection here is pretty much taboo.
I actually don’t have a problem with that in general, but it was a little strange at noon in a park with kids all around. And it wasn’t just casual making out – these couples were laying on top of each other 😉
There actually is some pretty great street art out there in Santiago, but it’s rather hidden. You have to know where to find it. I wouldn’t even call some of those photos graffiti it’s more just like “loosers with paint cans”. If I was a city official I would put a heavy penalty for punks doing that stuff.
Your so right about people making out. It’s ridiculous. Like literally everywhere. Give me a break, already.
Totally agree. The scribbles are a waste.