Review: The World Atlas of Street Art and Graffiti by Rafael Schacter

The World Atlas of Street Art and Graffiti
written by Rafael Schacter
published by Yale University Press

find it here: (affiliate links) Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Book Depository, Goodreads

Why did I pick this book: I was asked by the publicist to review this book. (I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)

Did I enjoy this book: This was a different selection for me. It’s not a book that I would normally seek out but it piqued my interest when the request came in. I’m glad I decided to check out this book.

The World Atlas of Street Art and Graffiti is not a book that I sat down with and read start to finish. I picked it up every now and then, examined the pictures, and read the biographies of the different artists. I really like the maps of the different cities drawn by some of the artists. There were some works that I didn’t get. There were some that looked like vandalism to me. And there were others that blew my mind, the cover and the other pieces by El Mac especially. His pieces are amazing. They call them “photo-realistic” and they truly are.

Here are a few pictures from The World Atlas of Street Art and Graffiti.

This was a very interesting book. It made look at things differently, question  things, and truly appreciate the talent of many of these street and graffiti artists.

Would I recommend it: If you are an art buff, an art major, or you enjoy art, graffiti, and learning about various graffiti and street artists, then yes, check out this book.

Will I read it again: I will probably pick it up now and then to look at the pictures and read a few bios. It is not a book that I will read cover-to-cover again.

About the book – from Goodreads: Painted murals first appeared in Latin America in the early 20th century; in the 1950s, spray-can graffiti associated with Latino gangs followed, notably the “cholo” graffiti of Los Angeles. Today, street art has traveled to nearly every corner of the globe, evolving into a highly complex and ornate art form. The World Atlas of Street Art and Graffiti is the definitive survey of international street art, focusing on the world’s most influential urban artists and artworks. Since the lives and works of urban artists are inextricably linked to specific streets and places, this beautifully illustrated volume features specially commissioned “city artworks” that provide an intimate understanding of these metropolitan landscapes.

Organized geographically by country and city, more than 100 of today’s most important street artists—including Espo in New York, Shepard Fairey in Los Angeles, Os Gêmeos in Brazil, and Anthony Lister in Australia—are profiled alongside key examples of their work. The evolution of street art and graffiti within each region is also chronicled, providing essential historical context. With contributions by the foremost authorities on street art and graffiti, this landmark publication provides a nuanced understanding of a widespread contemporary art practice. The World Atlas of Street Art and Graffiti emphasizes urban art’s powerful commitment to a spontaneous creativity that is inherently connected to the architecture of the metropolis.