Those familiar with the "broken window" theory know that graffiti falls into the category of an undesirable presence in a neighborhood which, if you believe in the theory, leads to a slippery slope of escalating problems. The response has been to nip the problem in the bud by spray painting over anything from "Gary was Here" to a postmodern masterpiece. But does all graffiti deserve to be wiped out? What if the piece has artistic value? Many pieces are testimonies to the raw talent of undiscovered youth. Does it all deserve to be erased? Are there any public or private areas where sporadic art should be accepted? Does everything need a permit in this world?
Our question for Sunday is: What do you think about graffiti? If someone painted a beautiful piece of urban art on a public or private space in your neighborhood without permission, what would be your response?
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