Street art, once vilified as mere vandalism, has undergone a radical transformation over the past few decades. Today, it’s celebrated as a vibrant expression of urban culture, providing insight into societal issues, beautifying cities, and becoming a tool for urban revitalization. This evolution from graffiti’s rebellious origins to an accepted and often celebrated form of public art demonstrates significant cultural shifts and highlights the changing perceptions of public space usage. Origins and Early Perceptions Street art, in its earliest form, was synonymous with graffiti, characterized by tags and images spray-painted illicitly on public walls. Originating as part of the hip-hop culture among African American and Latino youths in New York…

In our increasingly globalized world, the lines between cultural appropriation and appreciation can often seem blurred. As people from diverse backgrounds interact more frequently and share different aspects of their cultures, the question of how to respectfully engage with cultures other than our own becomes paramount. This discussion is not just academic but touches on the everyday choices of what we wear, the festivals we celebrate, and even the food we eat. Understanding where to draw the line between appropriation and appreciation is crucial in fostering mutual respect and avoiding cultural insensitivity. Understanding Cultural Appropriation and Appreciation Cultural Appropriation typically refers to the use of one culture’s symbols, artifacts, genres,…