Discussion Forum

Mural Survey Feedback
The Use of Community Art Projects and Murals as a Means of Controlling Graffiti

We have had many responses to our survey on the use of art projects and graffiti galleries as a means of controlling graffiti. Opinions have varied greatly with some believing that these projects would only worsen the problem and others thinking that they could be of real benefit.

Comments from councillors and the police show differences in priorites. Councillors need to balance budgets and are concerned about wasting money on repeated clearing of graffiti. They tend to object to any form of engagement with graffiti vandals. The police, on the other hand, deal directly with the vandals, see the human side of the problem and believe that these projects can work.

We have been told about art projects that have been a resounding success. Members of the community have worked together and rid the area of the graffiti blight that once plagued their neighbourhood. On the other hand we heard of one project which went badly wrong.

Read about the experiences of others below and please contact us with your experiences.

Tony Parkes
GraffitiHotline .co.uk
December 2006

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your e-mail. It is good to see a project with such a positive result and I can well understand why residents are delighted.

Comments from Keith - TfL Transport for London
23rd October 2008

This website is extremely informative and I congratulate you on the content.

TfL have been working in partnership with the police and London's bus operators for nearly 5 years to reduce the levels of graffiti and scratch graffiti on London's bus network and the use of on-bus CCTV to identify perpetrators has been very successful in London.

One point I have for all communities and police forces who have to deal with this menace is that why don't the press and public alike refer to these people for what they really are. They are NOT artists, they are graffiti criminals or graffiti vandals. Any act of graffiti that requires cleaning at someone else's expense is criminal damage, and is an arrestable offence.

I never refer to this group of people as "artists" because graffiti sprayed, daubed or scratched onto private vehicles, walls or property is not art.

Comments from Tim - South of England
30th October 2007

Firstly, i think you have done a great job on your website, you have conducted a very good and thorough investigation into graffiti, its causes and how to prevent it.

I read in your ''comments'' section that you were thinking of making a list of legal graffiti walls. This is a great idea as it is hard to find anywhere where painting is tolerated, and these locations are often spread by word of mouth - i have heard many a time of people painting something they thought to be legal, only to be arrested by a police officer looking for an easy arrest. I know of a few legal walls which i can say are 100% legal, and i would be happy to supply you with the names. All of the locations i know of are in the south, but maybe if you managed to contact people you could get a different person to provide you with a list for each area. This way you could provide a definitive guide to legal graffiti walls in the UK, which would be a great help to anyone. Thanks, Tim.

Response from GraffitiHotline

Tim Thank you for your e-mail and your comments. We have been considering maintaining such a list on our website for some time. The list could be accessed by individuals from our website or the list copied onto legal art websites by third parties on a regular basis. GraffitiHotline would maintain the original list and keep it up to date.

If you can let us have the list of legal graffiti sites you are aware of then we will contact the councils who are responsible for them to obtain their views and experience of the sites. Based on this feedback and their opinions, we could could then contact all the councils in the UK for details of legal graffiti sites in their areas, and present them with the findings of the sites you have provided.
Please can you let me have the locations of the sites you know of, and any photos of the sites if you have any and we will see how it all goes. Kind regards. Tony Parkes .

Response awaited.

Comments from research for a radio project

I'm doing a radio project about graffiti in the UK and have found your website really useful. I really need to find out roughly how many legal graffiti sites there are in the UK, do you know? or could you direct me to a website that has this information? Many Thanks

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your e-mail. A good question. We have had calls from individuals asking where there is a graffiti site in their area - we have made calls on their behalf but this is time consuming. There is not a national list of legal sites that we are aware of. We have considered compiling a list of legal sites across the UK - we are in contact with councils across the UK and we could quite easily create and maintain an upto date list.

We have also been in contact with graffiti writing groups asking whether they would consult such a list and use the legal sites. We would be prepared to copy the list we maintain to their own web sites so that their readers could access the information on their sites and feel happier doing so. We are still awaiting feedback. We are still considering whether to take the idea forward.

I hope that this helps and we would appreciate any feedback from your radio project.

Comments from 4Wall, London in February2007

I have just read your fascinating article about graffiti and people's responses to it. I think you managed to cover just how complex an issue this is for everyone concerned.

I am very interested and keen to become involved in the process of making graffiti safe, accessible and acceptable to society. I work as part of an arts and regeneration collective called 4Wall Ltd. We are involved in community engagement programmes and at present are heavily involved in a big development in Bermondsey square. We openly invited people to a take part in creating a massive 180 metre art hoarding which surrounds the development. The hoarding was painted by 4Wall artists and any members of the community who wished to contribute, in any way they chose. We organised painting days where our artists helped the developers in interacting with the local residents and workers. We wish to develop such projects and have thought about setting up graffiti galleries as part of our community engagement programme. With all of our projects however, we would endeavour to get the community involved with any decoration of public spaces, so as maintain a sense of safety within an area. I found your article to be a really interesting insight into public feeling.

I wanted to let you know about our projects and invite you to look at our websites

www.bermondseysquare.co.uk and www.4wall.co.uk

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for contacting us and introducing us to the work you undertake - it is very impressive. We have taken an extract form you web site to highlight some aspects of your work that visitors to our site will find useful.

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS & COMMUNITY
Sam, the founder of 4Wall, and the artists he now works with, all believe that if younger people were introduced to this work and shown the basic techniques, they would be much more engaged in art and feel they could make their own statements and images without the expense, expectations or stigma attached to traditional painting. With all this in mind, 4WALL now organises workshops, seminars and activities for young people to introduce them to graphics, stencilling, printing and live painting. If you are interested in this as an educator, parent or community arts person do get in contact. For details of existing projects (particularly in London) email becky@4wall.co.uk

Comments from Northumbria University in January 2007

If you treat graffiti - which is NOT a crime, and disliking it through personal taste will not be a good enough reason for local writers to stop doing it!! - as a political issue, you are asking for trouble. If you treat it dispassionately and pragmatically, and allow legal spaces for those who want to paint legally but are largely denied (and automatically criminalised as a result) you will enjoy success.

See the research work being done at the Northumbria University

Response from GraffitiHotline

When we undertook our survey we avoided looking at research that had already been undertaken. It was the intention to be open minded and to draw un-biased conclusions from the evidence.

Since the publication of the survey findings and conclusions it has been interesting to read the research hat has been undertaken at the Northumbria University - see "Exploring Solutions to 'graffiti' in Newcastle upon Tyne" published in April 2003 or read the summary of main findings.

We have requested an update on the research project and the results of the action plan that was drawn up following the research. Response awaited.

Response received:
We're still waiting! A paper was taken to Council which proposed the setting up of 3 sites. Unfortunately the cabinet took the decision to base just one at a local skatepark, where no-one wanted it! We've been trying to get one set up since, but high-level meetings are afoot....

Comments from Stowmarket in January 2007

From the property point of view, the surfaces that are used are never intended for such adornment. No permission is sought and this encourages the attitiude that other permissions need not be sought.I do wonder what these people would think if I went to where they lived and did the same to their home. This leads to anarchy and lowering of standards. From artistic point of view, depends on your view. On balance: prevent, prosecute.

Comments from a Newcastle in January 2007

We have now been running a project with graffiti boards trackside on metro in newcastle , these boards have caused some debate with passengers, most have agreed they like some of the work, others don't. The object was to reduce graffiti on a part on the line that was all ways covered.

After meeting writers and agreeing how it would be managed it was agreed to show these boards, 9ft by 12 ft, three in total. The areas were cleaned and the boards went up and in the 12 months of them being up it has reduced graffiti by 90% in the area around where the baords are placed . Over all this has been a succes and we are now looking at ways to increase the work we have done with writers.

While ilegal graffiti will never stop if you can work with writers to reduce graffiti and cleaning cost while allowing some graffiti work to be done then every one wins, Not all graffiti writers just want to tag some guys/girls when allowed the time can be ammazing to watch.

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your e-mail.

Can I ask a question. Is it feasible for a group to be given access during engineering time when lines are powered down, to paint directly onto embankment walls? When professional artists create large murals they spend weeks with pen and paper designing their work and then a team would spend a couple of days reproducing this on the wall. I could see quite a number of people being engaged in this way and then working through the night on a ten hour shift to put it into action - what a challenge!

See photos

Response from Newcastle

Please find attached some pictures of some work that has been up on tracks around metro . AS a rule these boards are done off site as due to Health and Safety it would not be possible to allow people to go track side in working hours we have done some work over night when the system is shut down this has been in the no access areas of stations , over all we have found that this has given us a reduction of graffiti in these areas , while I do not think we will ever stop all illegal graffiti the prospect of doing nothing but remove /prosecute etc has to date not been that successful , so like most things at some point a new approach has to be tried, At nexus(metro) we are trying to work with local writers to engage in legal work and stop them from trespassing on metro lines .

Update from Newcastle March 07

The Board System we have on the metro system in newcastle showing legal work from graffiti writers/artist etc from around the area has now been running for over 15 months and to date has been a great success , as such I have just started a new set of boards in another area on the metro tracks on the south side area.

I can only say that the work done has been a two way street with writers and metro , i think it has worked well and shown that if some one is willing to give some thing and work with writers then you will get some thing back . While you will all ways have the element who prefer to do illegal work and this you will never change , but it is allowing more working groups/ comunity works /and a much better understanding between people who like to write and them who want to judge all by one cover.

For me I have met some very intersting people who have shown me just how hard it is for them to be seen as artist of some form and not just vandals I would suggest others try it see how it works before just saying NO Feel free to contact me if you would like more info on the projects we now have running around the metro system or other groups we work with . Newcastle Metro system

Comments from a South Bedfordshire Councillor in January 2007

I think that positively engaging (encouraging)younger people, makes them feel more included in the community. They are more likely to direct their energy to positive activities and away from negative ones. Also physiologically if you give something to someone in most cases they feel that they owe something back to you.

I believe the Princes Trust do these sorts of projects and the voluntary sector could be a vehicle to implement a project. Also is this not an opportunity to get a creative design agency in as a sponsor and introduce a competition for the best art? Wouldn't it be excellent to convert someone's prospect from having a graffiti conviction to having a design award on their CV?

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your e-mail.

We believe that a competition would be a good way to get graffiti off the streets and onto legal graffiti sites. I am confident that sponsorship could be secured. We will undertake to do this once we have a Graffiti Gallery set up - we are hoping that a council will come forward soon.

Comments from a Glasgow individual in January 2007

Hi im wondering if their is any legal sites for spray painting art in the glasgow center area west end or southside? i know in edinburgh their is a few legal sites but unsure about glasgow. thanks Scott

Response from GraffitiHotline

Dear Scott Thanks for your e-mail. I have contacted Glasgow council to ask them where their legal graffiti sites are. I was passed around from department to department since no-one knew. I was told by the graffiti removal team that there were certain areas from which they did not bother to remove graffiti but they could not say whether these were legal sites. I know this does not help you but it does make me appreciate going legal with graffiti isn't made very easy.

I would like to ask you some questions.
1. If you were involved in illegal graffiti would you switch to legal sites if they were available?
2. If competitions were held to find the best graffiti at a legal site would that encourage their use?
3. Do you think we should add a national list of legal graffiti sites on our website?
4. We make regular contact with all councils across the UK but would graffiti artists use the list or is it all just too organised?

Many thanks for any help you can provide - I would like to post your replies on our forum.

Reply received on 12 Jan 07 as follows:

"I reckon if their was legal sites and especialy a list of legal sites- people who are proper graffiti artist would make use of them... I cannot speak for the odd chav or ned who likes to just spray rubbish tags on walls and im sure that what gets on your nerves too...
Here in edinburgh their are a few legal sites and during the edinburgh festival their are artists from all over the world who come and produce some of the most amasing art displays i have seen. As you can see its hard to figure out what sites are legal and what are not.. Its time something was done about this!!! and im sure you would see a massive difference especialy as no one shall have a excuse for vandalism via a spray can. Thank you so much for your help, i can understand being pushed from pillar to post with Glasgow city council not knowing their butt from their elbow can be frustrating to say the least.
I look forward to getting a answer.
All the best scott P.S all the questions you have asked the answer is a definate YES

Comments from a Middlesborough Councillor in January 2007

I understand the conflict of interest in this matter but am appalled at the type of graffiti we are having to deal with repeatedly at bus stops in our ward, I agree with other Councillors - we cannot afford to keep throwing money at its removal and we only encourage more of the same if we back graffiti legitimising projects. What exactly are the Police doing about stopping unauthorised graffiti anyway? It is quite obvious where the youths are gathering when graffiti rears its foul ( in most cases) head.This is proof of "yob" activity and a wider crime issue. it is up to The Police to monitor these youths and their activities, surely and not encourage such behaviour!

Comments from a Harrow Councillor in January 2007

I think that with an exception of a few, most graffiti producers are very creative. In absence of availablity of any other medium to express themselves, they resort to the "free canvas" available to them - walls, shop shutters, large vertical surfaces etc., The "frustrated artist" in a graffit painter lets himslef loose on public property crying out loud for help.

I believe that projects that enables these people to express themselves in a controlled and civilised manner are welcome. Such proposals should be widely advertised so that the "would be graffiti artists" could express themselves and be proud contributors to murals and street paintings

Comments from a South Tyneside Councillor in January 2007

As a local councillor the only contact that I get from the people I represent regarding graffiti is to complain about it. They do not want it controlled, they want it eradicated

Comments from a Knowsley Councillor in January 2007

I am yet to be convinced that `so-called Art Work' is successful in alleviating graffiti. There are times when the art work looks worse than the graffiti it purports to cover or prevent

Comments from a RAG, Worthing in January 2007

From 2000 - 2004 arts group RAG ran over a dozen graffiti projects across West Sussex, in partnership with the youth service, Sussex Police, local authority, schools and community groups. We gave young people the opportunity to explore their own individual creativity, working in a safe and supportive group situation. They had an opportunity to work and learn alongside professional artists (not graffiti artists, but fine art graduates trained as detached youth workers), exploring issues of community safety, the youth justice system, and substance misuse at the same time.
Awarding one of our grants, MP for Worthing West, Peter Bottomley, said: "This is positive help and recognition for a revolutionary scheme that shows young people how to gain skill and satisfaction. The whole community benefits." Local police and the community safety team reported a drop in incidents of new graffiti where we worked.

RAG still operates, but primarily as an artist led organisation with some arts development roles. We don't run any graffiti projects at the moment - there wasn't the long-term funding to develop the work so we had to concentrate on other areas.

Comments from a New Forest Councillor in December 2006

I have been involved in two "Graffiti Mural" project (Pennington and New Milton)both in the New Forest District Council's area of responsibility. In both cases the project was 'managed' by Young People. The work was undertaken to stop raffiti activities, which in most cases was abusive including foul language. Since the projects completion there have NOT been further incidents of disgusting graffiti.

Comments from a West Devon Councillor in December 2006

Some 20 years ago and whilst I was a Parish Clerk we had continued graffitti of our wooden bus shelter in Yelverton by some disaffected teenagers. We spent pounds then on specialisit cleaning materials. But I went to their School, spoke to the Art Master, and the net result was 3-4 very large art panels in the teenagers own style which were then hung in the bus shelter. There was no more serious graffitti for many years after that. The teenagers grew up, became responsible adults, and I still have the picture!!! So I am on the side of the police!

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you very much for this e-mail. We see endless bus shelters close to schools with petty graffiti scrawl - almost cleaned daily at great expense. Is this a solution? Could every school adopt their bus shelter?

Comments from a Braintree Councillor in December 2006

Graffiti sites could be given a chance, however, these must be controlled in some way as to stop abusive and racial statements. If any one has seen John Lennon wall in Prague I am sure they will agree this has become a work of art to be treasured. Who knows, similar could happen hear.

Response from GraffitiHotline

Please keep us up to date with your project in Farncombe. If you decide to introduce a Graffiti Gallery as described in our survey findings then please let us know - we would love to follow its progress and we may be able to offer some help.

Comments from a Dacorum Councillor in December 2006

I would like to say that as a Councillor I am very supportive of Graffiti Walls.Our Council has now completed 3 walls, they are organized by the council's community services team in partnership with local schools. The children design the pictures and local artists paint the murals. I am amazed that no walls get vandalized. At the moment we are working with an ex-offender to design a website for graffiti artists and hopefully another mural. Also the local Police are very supportive of these initiatives.

I would be grateful of any advice you have to encourage my fellow councillors to support these initiatives. I will also keep you informed of any successful projects we do.

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your comments. With regards to advice to encourage fellow councillors I feel that it is a case of them seeing the projects in action and the results they achieve.

This forum is bringing together projects from all over the country. It shows projects that have worked and those that have failed. It is the intention to produce some golden rules, with evidence, to help all projects succeed and we hope to publish this later in the year.

We have requested further information on the Dacorum projects and photographs. We will post these on this forum on receipt.

Comments from a Southend Councillor in December 2006

I can understand the police tolerance and would support their view but on balance I sincerely believe authorised graffiti would be misinterpreted by those have the desire to spray.

Comments from a Wirral Councillor in December 2006

Covering anything with paint without the permission of the owner is anti-social, visually intrusive, unacceptable behaviour and a crime.
It puts people to cost and often permanent damage to the area covered in an attempt to rectify the damage caused by others and return the defaced item to its original (designed) condition. Graffiti is pure vandalism and should not be re-defined as acceptable art and 'prettied up' as being anything else.
Those inclined to produce graffiti should either first consult with local people to see if their artistic talents can be put to good use by decorating otherwise large blank areas of barren concrete - or they should engage in art school courses where their talents can be developed and put to good artistic purpose. To get hold of spray point and apply it where one likes is pure arrogant, ignorant, selfish thoughtlessness without consideration for others.
To allow graffiti artists to unilaterally deface what they like - merely because they want to it - is acceptance of a wanton piece of vandalism that some of us find it too easy to condone simply because it is difficult to control. If we applied that logic to all other acts of annoyance caused by one section of the community to another section, we would soon have a complete beak down of law and order.
These are my own views and do not necessarily reflect the views of my political associates - although I suspect many will have sympathy with them...

Comments from a Canterbury Councillor in December 2006

I take a hard-line view! I think these graffiti vandals should be made to clean up the mess - at their own expense, of course. We are told it's hard to catch them - but if the police are going to 'engage' with them, then surely they must make contact some time?

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your comments. We will soon be undertaking research into the methods available to identifiy vandals and into suitable punishments and deterrents.

Comments from a Gloucestershire Councillor in December 2006

I have found the information most useful and have been sharing it with colleagues. I have also tried to ensure that young people have access as well. It is a most interesting debate - and one which will undoubtedly give rise to passions on both sides.

Response from GraffitiHotline

Many thanks for your comments. We are pleased that young people will have access to the survey and their opinions would be welcomed. We are also looking forward to putting a Graffiti Gallery into practice in the very near future. We will keep you updated on progress.

Comments from an Epsom & Ewell Councillor in December 2006

I personnally believe that Street Art does not eliminate the problem of Graffiti which is a blight on our lives and a huge expense to ratepayers for its removal. You only have to travel, for example, from Epsom to Waterloo to see the vast amount of gaffiti that is quite impossible to tackle as it has been allowed to fester for many years. Offering sites for these 'artists' to do their artwork only sends the message that it is acceptable (in my own opinion). Graffiti makes an area look as if it is deprived. People (most of them anyway)hate it and the only answer is for enforcement of the law that says Graffit is a criminal offence.. In Epsom we have a policy to remove graffiti as quickly ss we can at great expense to our rate payers, but the residents have clearly told us that they want it removed from all areas, particularly the children's playgrounds where the 'artists' are rife. Surely these 'talented' people could express their art in other ways at Colleges for example to Train for a career in Graphics?
People say that New York trains are covered. Well they were, but a couple of years ago when I travelled on the subway, the trains were clear. I think it was due to zero tolerance and different surfaces. (who knows). I am most impressed with your web site for its informed research.

Comments from a Shrewsbury Councillor in December 2006

I have experience that when Graffiti is put on with youngsters help, officially and to a good standard then it works and the 'artists' protect their work. The sites need to be well chosen and local folk consulted - but not necessarily control a yes or no vote. Graffiti needs REMOVING IMMEDIATELY on any surface and quite often will come off with soap and water with plenty of elbow grease. They sign their names so should be caught and made to remove.

Comments from a Swale Councillor in December 2006

I have been asking around in my Ward. I as a councillor I also see the "human" aspect...probably as much if not more than the police... I live here... The general feeling of my Ward members is not to encourage graffiti "artistes". Once they start in on official sites new "artistes" will take it to the streets. Hope this is helpful.

Comments from a New Forest Councillor in December 2006

I agree with the police. There is obviously talent in some cases and this, if fostered, could be channelled into more conventional avenues.

Comments from a Liverpool Councillor in December 2006

Just like buying a box of matches for arsonists

Comments from a Torbay Councillor in December 2006

It is my opinion that if an appropriate site can be found and the participants feel they own it, would reduce spasmodic use of other sites, therefore a reduction of cost. The wall used outside of the Acorn Youth Centre, Torquay, is very artistic, and I've yet to hear any complaints.

Comments from a Merton Councillor in December 2006

I am with the Councillors on this. Municipal Graffiti, is no better than poor architectural design. Why should we spend good money on improving the environment (lovely clean brickwork on a well designed building) that will enhance the services and employment position of all the community in major city centres and then accept scrawl on the wall. This than detracts and intimidates law abiding citizens who could be creating further employment.
You try saying to the park keeper assaulted on King Georges Park, the lady assaulted on Four Acres Estate by Graffiti merchants advertising drugs and gangs. I can only agree with them that it is unacceptable. I definitely do not subscribe to accepting it in any location.
If you want to send them to me we can head them in the direction on Merton Adult Education Service who will be pleased to equip them with all the skills necessary to earn a legal living rather than create criminal damage.

Comments from a Dover Councillor in December 2006

Has punishment ever been considered? I'm not being facetious.

Response from GraffitiHotline

This survey has explored the use of art projects as a means to help control graffiti. We are planning further research into the methods available to identifiy vandals and into suitable punishments and deterrents.

Comments from a Street Scene Manager in South Hams in December 2006

Graffiti is criminal damage pure and simple. Such gangs are often engaged in other crime,including robbery,and 'steaming' especially if travelling the train system. They will group together to attack any member of the public who confronts them. Often the material they work with is stolen...part of the buzz. I have no objection if they want to practice their art on their own property that is no offence....but it is a culture or criminality gang tag,a sort of trophy, a calling card and should be treated as an indication of a deterioation of an area. It should not be condoned.

Comments from an Eastleigh Councillor in December 2006

When I was a Cllr in Christchurch Dorset my ward had alot of graffiti problems. Then the arts officer informed us about a project to bring local artists and the kids together to design and complete a mural on the front of the refurbished changing rooms on the local rec. The kids loved it. They modelled for the artists and helped with the art. So they really felt that they owned it. The mural was covered in a graffiti proof covering but to this day ( at least 5 years) there have been no reports of damage to it as far as Iknow. I am not sure if the level of graffiti has reduced following the murals completion as i no longer live there but Ido know that it was a great success at the time and Iwould encourage these sorts of schemes as a way of tuning in to these kids.

Comments from an Epsom & Ewell Councillor in December 2006

I am afraid I disagree with the proposal of providing this type of facility. Most graffiti appears to be done for kicks and the danger element as to where a "tag" is placed. This offering will not deter or reduce the outlook of our street scene as the several walls in and around London which I have seen, have been scrawled over with other unsightly graffiti and has become a free for all. Only quick clearance, zero tolerance and prosecutions of offenders / shop keepers who sell these products to underage users will lead to results. Several cities including New York (recently visited) have adopted these measures with the full backing of the justice system and have been extremely successfull.

Comments from a Luton Councillor in December 2006

I am very interested in projects that deal with graffitti as I work with a group of young people in the Lewsey Farm area. I believe that you do have to make contact with those using this form of art and try to use it to enhance an area rather than blight it. We have a mural in our cafe project which works very well and I know the mural of the community centre at Hockwell Ring was good as was the painting of the bus shelters in Marsh Farm so would support activities of this sort. Let me know if I can be of any help.

Response from GraffitiHotline

We have requested photographs on the projects and we have also asked how the local residents have reacted to the murals and have the projects made a noticible difference to the levels of graffiti in the area. We await a response.

Response received. Thank you
"I know that the residents in Hockwell Ring were support of the mural on the community Centre - I am not sure what the results were in terms of reductions of Graffitti as the mural was done quite a while ago. Murals are used quite a lot with young people nowadays so the Youth Service may be able to give you some stats on this. Let me know if I can help in any other way "

Comments from an Hastings Councillor in December 2006

Graffiti is still criminal damage and as such should be dealt with by the law. Encouraging it with so called 'public art' is irresponsible.

Comments from a Wolverhampton Councillor in December 2006

I do not believe that this survey would do what they suggest it would. I think that graffiti is ugly and always on some one else's property. It is often threatening and always disfiguring no matter how it is dressed up.

Survey undertaken by the Halifax Evening Courier in November 2006

The Halifax Courier undertook its own survey in the streets of the Halifax to gauge the opinion of the general public to the Graffiti Gallery idea.

Malcolm Powell, 66, of Illingworth said "I worked on cleaning up the Skircoat Rugby Club and within days it had been vandalised. It is such a shame, it shows a lack of respect. But some of the graffiti people can do can have a lot of artistic merit so giving them a place to do it might be a good thing"

Terence Jones, 65, of Ovenden said "In Germany they give graffiti artists white-washed walls for work on and it works really well. They do some great art. So if it was the same in England I would support it but not in very open public areas. In Germany they do it in subways and underpasses"

Wajat Ali, 22, of Halifax said " No I don't think it is a good idea. I don't think it would work at all. It is just encouraging vandalism"

David Kershin, 43, of Lee Mount said " I think it depends where they would be wanting to make the legal spots. If it was in an appropriate place it would be okay but not in the middle of town or on a pavement or something where everyone had to look at it"

Doreen Jones, 63, of Pellon said "Some people who do graffiti are very talented. If the legalisation was properly organised I can't see any problems with it, it is better than on the town hall wall. I hope it would stop artists doing it elsewhere"

Gloris Craven, 51 of Halifax said "I think it might be a good idea because if it is legal and they can spend time on it they will probably produce better work. Some of the stuff you see is actually very good. It would depend where it is though"

Response from GraffitiHotline

Survey finding extracts included by kind permission of the Halifax Courier - link to Halifax Courier website for further information.

Feedback from a Southampton Councillor in November 2006

A mural was created in a Southampton subway by an art group working with local youths - the mural depicts two youths who were killed whilst on a stolen motorcycle. The mural has since become a mecca for troublesome youths who are involved in anti-social behaviour on a large scale. The local children are now too scared to use the subway. The local community are now fighting to have the mural removed or replaced. Southampton Council have created several amazing murals but they were not involved in the creation of this mural.

Response from GraffitiHotline

The creators of this mural have broken one of the golden rules - "Involve the whole community in the project".

It is sad that an opportunity to brighten up the area, bring the whole community together and to help combat graffiti has been lost. We hope that the residents, together with their local councillors, are successful in their fight and hope that they are able to turn the situation around.

Click here to see all the photos

Feedback from a City of York Councillor in November 2006

I have for a long time been impressed by the way other countries incorporate graffiti artists into public projects. For example in parts of Switzerland graffiti artists are invited to spray community recycling bins and skips with either general art or with artworks specifically intended to raise awareness of issues such as recycling, Climate Change, looking after the environment, etc. The results are often excellent and provide an outlet for artistic expression. This is, of course, a world away from the ugly tags that simply deface the built environment, but I believe lumping that all graffiti together is a simplistic knee-jerk reaction.

I have read the results of your survey and I would agree with the idea of a graffiti gallery. Buying large canvasses is all but impossible to anyone on a limited income, and graffiti art cannot be done on a sheet of A4, so it is not surprising that people are tempted to add colour to some of our cities' dingy and drab environments. Far better to provide a platform for expression than attempt to ban it altogether, which isn't going to work even if it were a laudable aim. We have SOME very creative artists producing graffiti. Graffiti art is a distinctive style and medium. If we could combine graffiti galleries with themed 'exhibitions' we might well all benefit from the results.

Feedback from a Youth Involvement Development Officer in North Wiltshire in November 2006

It's a pity the views of young people themselves haven't been sought (or if they have been sought - they haven't been documented) in this survey. It would make sense to find out what they think of the graffiti gallery idea and what other solutions they think would work to address the issue.

Response from GraffitiHotline

The views of ex-graffiti offenders were sought and their responses had a major impact on the conclusions drawn. Some of the practical elements in the design, control and implementation of 'Graffiti Galleries' had been suggested by them. Of course, more views would be welcome and if you are able to ask the young people you are in contact with for their thoughts on 'Graffiti Galleries' as described in the survey, then this would be very useful. Many thanks.

Response awaited

Feedback from a Wiltshire County Councillor in November 2006

Having read your report, I miss any conclusions as to whether the permissive approach has in any demonstrable way reduced unwanted graffiti anywhere. Did I just miss it, or are there no such conclusions possible? Would you expect to have some later?

St Edmunds Community Association commissioned a series of mosaics, made under expert supervision, and referring to local people and events. They are in an underpass on Salisbury’s ring road. I think that, since they’ve been there, there has been less graffiti. Come and see!

Response from GraffitiHotline

The survey brought together the experiences of people who are involved in the graffiti problem and the report sought to draw logical conclusions from the evidence.
The task now is to invite feedback and to learn from the efforts and experiences of other to see if their projects reflect or contradict the conclusions drawn in the project. We are already receiving feedback and details are being posted in this forum. The Graffiti Gallery idea described in the report has not been put to the test but we hope to have an opportunity to do this soon and we will keep everyone informed.

We have requested photographs of the murals to be e-mailed to us? Also, is it possible to obtain more information on the impact it has had on the levels of graffiti in the area. Response awaited

Feedback from Criminal Damage Coordinator of the Norfolk Constabulary in November 2006

Firstly well done, I read your report with interest and empathy. We are introducing street murals of both a cultural and historical nature and have been doing so for the last three years. None of these murals have been affected by graffiti, and were all created in areas where graffiti was prevalent. We have used local artists and young people working together, we have created murals in both residential and commercial locations. The murals have influenced attitudes in the neighbourhoods with residents cleaning up their own back yards in response. We have also established multi agency links and endeavour to remove illegal graffiti within 24 hours of being identified, so denying the scribbler any publicity.

Response from GraffitiHotline

Many thanks.

We have requested photographs of the murals to be e-mailed to us? Response awaited

Photos have arrived - thank you.

Click here to see all photos

Feedback in November 2006 - job title not given

Is there any evidence of a decrease in graffiti due to providing the 'artists' with somewhere to 'tag'?

Response from GraffitiHotline

The conclusion drawn from the survey is that 'Graffiti Galleries' may be a way forward. We are hoping that a council or community group will put the theory to the test.
The Hockley neighbourhood example below does indicate that projects involving young people can work although this is a different solution to the 'Graffiti Gallery' idea.
We will keep everyone informed should a 'Graffiti Gallery' volunteer come forward.

Feedback from a Cornwall councillor in November 2006

Graffiti is here to stay, whatever people think about it. A 'structured' project, in an appropriate location, has to be the way forward.Graffiti needs to come into the 'mainstream' - but what will those who don't want that to happen target next?

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your e-mail and photos. I have some questions to ask:

1. Have the murals been subject to graffiti attack since their creation and how often?
Reply: "There have been no attacks. We have deliberately included some of the known graffiti offenders in the project"

2. If the murals have been left alone, have the graffiti vandals started to attack other surfaces instead?
Reply: "We have actually run three projects and due to funding have left about 3 months between each project. My hobby is football which is legal, graffiti is not. We have to accept that there is a place for this work and given the time, these artists produce some quality work. Graffiti has dropped to almost zero in my neighbourhood."

3. Have any of the general public objected to the murals or their content?
Reply: "There have been no real objections. A few senior citizens called in to say they would prefer a white wall on a cricket pavilion, but general view is positive. We have been particularly careful to plan the work so there is nothing offensive"

4. Have the youths reacted positively to your efforts and do you believe their behaviour has changed?
Reply: "We have had a very positive reaction. There is a significant change in attitude and behaviour. The artist’s have been amazed that the police have organised the event and have taken great delight in taking photo’s of us in uniform holding spray cans."

Feedback from a Spelthorne Councillor in November 2006

This was very interesting. Impact on the community is enormously important.

Feedback from a Glasgow Councillor in November 2006

I commissioned two graffiti artists in Glasgow to paint hoardings around a currently unused sight within my city-centre ward. Most of the site is owned by Selfridges with a detailed planning application for a store pending. The work is almost complete and looks wonderful! I even arranged for Selfridges to pay the costs and for the payment to the commissioned artists.

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your e-mail. Hoardings around building sites and disused land are prime targets for graffiti scrawl. Owners of the land generally do not live in the vicinity of the hoardings and do not have worry about the impact it has on those who have to live with the graffiti it generates. Your work seems to offer a possible solution to this problem.
Note to readers: We have requested photographs and further information on the project and we will post this on receipt. We have also asked to be kept informed of progress in the future with regards to its success in deterring graffiti attacks..

Feedback from a Middlesborough Councillor in November 2006

In my opinion, all you are doing is encouraging it to be done where it should not be done and of course wasting tax payers money to boot.

Feedback from a Richmond Councillor in November 2006

There is no such thing as graffiti art - there may be art done with spray paint. But not graffiti art.

Feedback from a Bexley Councillor in November 2006

Graffiti is one of the scourges of the age. It makes the environment look a mess, and encourages further graffiti. The cost of removal is enormous. I am totally against Community Art projects and Murals as a means of attempting to control the problem. It seeks to gives the execution of graffiti a validity and acceptability which it does not deserve.

Feedback from Kingston in October 2006

Hi there! I just saw your graffiti report and I must write to you about our projects we use tiles, as mosaic, to cover graffiti www.savetheworldclub.org
We have worked with 6,000 local people in 8 years, mostly under 18s. We have covered more than 750 sq. metres of ugly spaces and we use mosaic because its washable. Young offenders have worked side by side with others making something positive. We have won awards for the art, the colour, use of recycled materials, training, getting people involved, and the incredible positive effect on the environment and the morale of local people.
Our local residents love it!! we choose real artists to study, or issues of concern, we avoid graffiti style, which idealises the graffiti itself which we believe is a cry for help....see "Deconstructing Graffiti" our research on this which Chief I Tim Pointer at Kingston Police says "every police officer in London should read this". We make sure we work with all stakeholders (we found painted murals have a short life...... some mosaic murals the Romans did still exist!) anyway, hope you can add us in, we have helped to reduce graffiti in the surrounds by 50% it works
Thanks
Bernadette Vallely
Development officer. Save the world club

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your e-mail. Your organisation undertakes valuable and fascinating work. We have added your organisation to our links page for other to see.

Feedback from an Havering councillor in October 2006

I wish people would stop dignifying Graffiti with the term Art, which in its unwanted form it can, in my opinion, never be any such thing. It is mostly repetitive and ugly scrawl and highly disfiguring.

Feedback from Hockley Neighbourhood Policing Team, Rochford District Council in September 2006

Hockley is a very low crime, affluent area of Essex. It did however receive more than a fair share of damage by graffiti and tagging. Police spent many hours gathering intelligence, performing arrests and searches to get these offenders to court. During the time with the offenders, it was obvious they have a great talent. We asked them why they tag? It is their hobby. Mine is kicking a football, but that is not illegal. Why should their hobby be illegal? It was obvious we would never beat these offenders so as the saying goes, "if you can't beat them..." Hockley police and Rochford District Council joined forces to provide a wall and paint. The wall was a cricket pavilion in a very busy sports centre. Essex Youth Services provided an artist and we invited along our main graffiti offenders. The walls have been a success not only providing an attractive cricket theme Spray can art mural, but a talking point amongst the Community. Reports of crime by graffiti have dropped to zero. The offenders are frustrated they cannot show off their work, so resort to tagging to get their notoriety. Yes we could spend thousands of pounds cleaning it off, but why not lets make these areas attractive. The possibilities are endless and space is not so hard to find as you think. Industrial estates for example. The artists are more than willing to do work displaying company logo's on walls, skip bins and even lorries. Parks and skate parks. Even railways and shopping areas. The art can be impactive messages such as 'kill your speed' or 'stop racism.' The artists have a lot to offer. Give them a chance and watch the reports of crime by graffiti fall.

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you very much for your e-mail. I have found it very interesting and it may well prove to be a valuable example for councils across the country.
We have received many e-mails from Art project schemes whereby youths take part to create murals in the hope of getting them to take pride in their environment. We have also received many e-mails objecting to this type of project on the grounds that they find the content and style of the work agressive and as bad as illegal graffiti. More support was given to art projects which were not in the typical 'graffiti style', for example, murals undertaken by primary schools. We are trying to create some 'Golden Rules' in the use of murals and public art as a means to reduce graffit and if possible, solutions that are acceptable to all.
Your e-mail states that the reports of graffiti in some areas have dropped to zero. Do you have any more inforamtion and photos on what has been achieved and are you able to provide any more informaiton on the levels of graffiti before and after the project. Also, are there any objections from locals who do not like seeing the murals? Many thanks for your help.

News from Sheffield in September 2006

PROPOSALS for a graffiti wall in Sheffield have been rubbed out by council chiefs who fear it will give out the wrong impression.
Councillors from all parties looked at whether to have a designated wall in the city which graffiti artists and taggers could spray on without fear of being prosecuted. But council chiefs have rejected the idea because they say it would give the wrong message.The neighbourhoods scrutiny board has published a detailed report on all kinds of graffiti, fly posting and tagging issues in the city. Six councillors and officers worked on the report, called The Writing on the Wall, over an eight month period and visited other cities to see how they tackle the problem.
Chairman of the scrutiny board, said: "The working group considered everything from a zero tolerance approach, which was supported by the majority of the public in a survey, right through to having some degree of tolerance in specific areas." Got an opinion?

For more information click here

Feedback from Aberdeen Council in September 2006

I have found that where murals have been painted on the unit shuttering in the shopping centre it has been well respected & has lasted without being sprayed for years. The murals were done with the assistance of a professional who guided the young people with regard to how they should achieve their ideas but was their project.

Feedback from East Devon Council in September 2006

Youth Consultation with a difference! Organised by the Arts Dept. at East Devon District Council, this event was part of the Councils wider consultation plans. Young people were given the chance to get together in a safe environment take part in a well organised competition, listen to local youth bands and drop in to the free Graffiti workshop. Professional Graffiti artist Mark Alford from Exeter was employed to help the street artists taking part to develop their style without breaking the law. 67 linear metres of boarding was erected against the Skate Park railings to provide a permanent exhibition space for the local young people. A team of video professionals was also employed to gather opinion from a wide range of attendees, we wanted young people to be given the chance to tell us what they think about play and life in general in East Devon. The opinions gathered will be used to inform future policy and practice across the area to ensure that the Council keep the ideas of its young people at the forefront of everything that it does. The Street Art element of the day provided a wonderful focus for the young people's enthusiasm and showed just how they can respond to an artistic challenge. We would love to do it again, perhaps in another area of East Devon with the young people themselves taking over a large part of the organisation.

Feedback from South Hams District Council in September 2006

"My suggestion is that each town/city/big village should provide several metres of wall or boarding for graffiti artists. Ideally, those wishing to use the space provided should form a committee that would be responsible for organising:
-a. competitions
-b. decisions on what should be preserved for (for example) the next month
-c painting over stuff that had been exhibited
The local councils and/or youth clubs could help out by overseeing the operation in each community To my certain knowledge, young people will use available space even when it is provided by an authority. Moreover, they are expert at assessing graffiti and ready to learn from each other. I see the graffiti movement as a given opportunity for local authorities to harness the energy and the opinions of our essential young people."

Feedback from Maidstone Council in September 2006

"Maidstone Borough Council has looked at educating young people in an attempt to deal with tagging. I'd like to point out the difference between 'tagging' which is writing slogans & names in public places as opposed to graffiti art which is an art form and the majority of graffiti artists do not deface pubic property to showcase their art. Maidstone Borough Council has contracted a professional local graffiti artist (who trained at art college to perfect his technique) to work with young people on targeted estates to teach them graffiti art and to teach them to respect public property. Having the right role model to interact with the young people is imperative to the success of such projects. Four years on, graffiti has stopped in the 2 areas targeted, one a play park; one a skateboard park. As a result of these successful projects which we have advertised over the internet, Maidstone Borough Council has been approached by local authorities across the country asking for advice on how to run similar projects in their Boroughs."

Feedback from Test Valley Council in September 2006

"The wall paintings of many hands in the tunnel leading from Waitrose down towards the Pocket Park in Andover which was painted at least 10 years ago has survived amazingly well so far as I have seen and not been defaced by inappropriate graffiti except on a few occasions.
The paintings of racing cars which are in the underpass between Junction road and the Anton River bridge do suffer from defacement by inappropriate "graffiti" on a fairly regular basis. Is there some kind of wall paint that prevents defacement? Objectionable graffiti on walls has been tackled at least in Cricketers Way by special paint. It is not good to see foul language or rude words as a part of one's environment"

Response from Graffiti Hotline

There are many coating available on the market to make the removal of graffiti easier. Please see information on coatings.

Feedback from Solihull Council in September 2006

"Solihull has a splendid scheme where disturbed youngsters are able to use their Graffiti skills to decorate an underpass in Shirley. This is supervised and done to a high standard. Participants get rid of their anger through street art. I have seen the results over twelve months and think that it has been very successful.

"I would commend any similar controlled graffiti as a very good way of discouraging unwanted mess and actively doing good."

Feedback from South Somerset Council in September 2006

"Four villages in my ward. Only one has this problem though. And there the Young People's Parish Council are dealing with it by establishing a dedicated Graffiti Wall at the Recreation Ground."

Feedback from Ealing Council in September 2006

"I'm very interested in ideas to counteract antisocial behaviour. I feel that the roots lie in some sort of alienation and that schools and youth services have to offer activities using an approach that can draw young people in and start to motivate them. Take graffiti, for instance. I've seen some stunning murals along canals and in disused railway stations - unfortunately people don't see graffiti-style murals as art. Do art teachers give any input about graffiti art? Do they take it seriously as an art form - I don't know if it is or not, but if it was, there would be more opportunity for the perpetrators to express their (some might say depraved) angst openly as an art form in a structured environment and maybe less on local walls and buildings. Is this too revolutionary to discuss seriously?"

Feedback from Richmond upon Thames Council in September 2006

"Happy with HIGH QUALITY art work/planting etc if it covers space that might otherwise attract graffiti and is in keeping with streetscene and general architectural setting.

"Strongly opposed to any acceptance of graffiti as any form of art or the use of spray paints in any public space or any programme which does not impart that graffiti daubing is selfish and destructive vandalism and deserving of censure."

Feedback from Wolverhampton in September 2006

"Graffiti isn't, never has been, and ever will be, 'art'"

Feedback from Leeds Council in September 2006

"There are no projects of the kind you mention in my Ward, successful or otherwise. I will look at your website, but I have to say that the involvement of my colleagues and I in graffiti is usually getting it removed from public buildings. I have yet to be convinced of the value of graffiti workshops, some of which have been run by our local Youth Service."

Feedback from Dundee Council in September 2006

"I object to graffiti official or otherwise."

Feedback from Hull Council in September 2006

"I don't like to see it, you don't see it in well off areas. I think it brings the tone of the area down. It is good on walls that are not public"

Feedback from Calderdale Council in August 2006

"With reference to your Community Murals, we do not encourage this and we only have some in an underpass leading to the Police Station, and in liaison with the police we allowed it to stop graffiti and make it reasonable for people to walk through. As soon as any graffiti appears, we remove it."

Feedback from Maidenhead Council in August 2006

"Many thanks for the e-mail. We try and keep on top of this blight in my Maidenhead ward, but it's a constant battle - especially during holiday times.

"One sadness for me is the constant attacking of a mural on a footbridge. The mural is made up of a montage of children's paintings on the theme 'traveling to school' and helps brighten up a rather dull area. It was put on the footbridge three years ago by a professional artist and a protective coat was placed over it to help keep the graffiti at bay. However, the effectiveness of the coating is starting to wane and the mural is becoming damaged. Any suggestions?"

Response from GraffitiHotline

Thank you for your comments. Permanent graffiti coatings should last for up to ten years, if they are correctly applied, and any graffiti is removed using the correct chemicals and techniques. Once the coating starts to deteriorate, it is very difficult to remove it without damaging the underlying mural. So I am afraid that there is no easy solution.

If you were to repair or replace the mural then try to involve the community and people using the bridge. Generally if they have created it they will look after it.

Could you please e-mail some photographs so we can make any further suggestions.

Response from France in 2006

"France has a terrible graffiti problem, but I saw a very prominent area near the station where young people had obviously been encouraged to do work of a very high quality. The area had no other graffiti, partly because of the pride in seeing their work in such a high profile place. I also think it enabled older people to realise how skillful some graffiti is and enjoy it in a setting where the colourful and dramatic tags were a positive contribution to the environment.

"I'm not too keen on murals that are done by artists who have not engaged with the local young people. The young people have to be the kids that do the graffiti, not some 'good' little primary pupils."

Feedback in August 2006

"Interesting web site that asks questions that some 'community orientated' artists might shy away from.

"As a visual artist who occasionally works within community contexts, I have turned down mural commissions because I've come to recognise that the mural tends to signify 'community deprivation' rather than 'community pride'. Unless the building/surface is either low profile or temporary (or, as is often the case, both), there really is no excuse for a mural.

"If the building lacks integrity...it shouldn't be there! If a building has integrity it will not be enhanced by the addition of a mural (and I saw the best that Leningrad, Moscow and Belfast had to offer)... and If there's one thing more ugly than an ugly building, it's an ugly building with an ugly mural on it!

"Temporary hoardings and graffiti walls are a great idea, external murals painted onto the walls of prominent buildings are a bad idea (- discuss)!

Feedback from Gravesham Council in August 2006

"Graffiti is a criminal offence whether it be by the yob culture or councils (referring to youth projects creating murals). I totally disagree that this kind of vandalism can in some way be classed as 'Art' - it is nothing more than an eyesore"

Response from GraffitiHotline

"Is it Art?" is a question that can create an endless debate as can the proverb "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder"

We have seen a council funded youth project create a mural on a housing estate and a few days later the same council remove the mural following pressure from residents. We have also seen murals well received by residents and brighten up an otherwise dreary area.

The aim of this survey is to establish if there are any golden rules that can be followed when murals and public art are used to regenerate areas and as a means to successfully control graffiti.

Response from Northumbria University

The suggestion that graffiti is a criminal offence - this is factually incorrect. Graffiti only becomes a criminal offence when it is done in the 'wrong place' - it then becomes criminal damage. So the onus is on the authorities to ensure graffiti writers who want to paint legally can do so - as the act of painting with a spray can, in itself, is as illegal as painting with a brush on a canvas...s it Art?" is a question that can create an endless debate

Feedback from Lewes Council in August 2006

"I organised the painting of a badly and persistently graffitied pedestrian footbridge over the railway in Lewes last year; in the main this has very much improved the look of the footbridge. We do have sporadic small graffiti markings but find that if we clean these off the same day it may be a week or two before more appear.

"In the last year we have had only 1 really bad incident when person or persons unknown spray painted almost all of the sections on the bridge with car paint. Thanks to the anti-graffiti paint we managed to remove almost all of the marks.

"Apart from prompt removal of marks, and sometimes going into the local secondary school when the writing appears to identify youngsters from a particular group to see if the culprits can be found and then asked to help remove the markings.

The other things which have helped are involving 24 local groups in designing the panels and the existence of a new graffiti wall in a local park. Mostly I think I should just say well done on cleaning up the bridge etc; and good luck with all the hard work of maintaining it...."

Feedback from Colchester Council in August 2006

"I was involved in delivering a youth project which saw the painting of a mural on the wall of the wall of the Salary Brook subway which goes under the A133. So far there has not been any damage to this. The other subway which joins the Greenstead Estate to Greenstead Road has instead been simply painted and despite the presence of CCTV cameras it continues to suffer from graffiti"

A youth shelter in Wendover that was repainted over a period of five months by a group of young people, had graffiti sprayed on it just days after the work was completed in August 2006. The group of boys worked with a professional street artist to design a mural that reflected the youth in Wendover. "It is quite annoying, as the graffiti is not as good and has spoilt what we did." More info

The Tarner Area Partnership in Brighton commissioned a mural in July 2005. The design of the mural was based on the ideas and drawings of young people and it reflected what they wanted to see in the area. The finished mural was sealed with yacht varnish.