Graffiti in T.O

There is one last post I wanted to make regarding art in Toronto, this one is the most accessible and I guarantee that it is also the cheapest. If you walk almost anywhere, not necessarily in just Toronto, you will be sure to walk by some 'public art' per say or as it's know to be called: Graffiti.

Graffiti Alley
http://fc05.deviantart.net/fs14/f/2007/089/2/4/Graffiti_Alley_by_JaimeIrate.jpg

There is of course controversy behind the concept of graffiti - is it considered vandalism or just a way to express yourself on a larger scale that is made available for everyone to witness? I personally think it depends on the subject matter portrayed, if it's simply a tag or disrespectful and meaningless then perhaps it can be put up for debate but there are some truly beautiful pieces of art around the streets of Toronto that showcase the talents of the average Joe.

Now it is true you can see this kind of art anywhere in T.O but there are some notable works that might be cool for you to check out. If you've ever watched The Rick Mercer Report on CBC then you probably know that he often does his famous rants in what is known as "Graffiti Alley" and it is exactly what you think it is, an alley full of graffiti from local artists. There are also seven different pieces painted by arguably the most famous graffiti artist in the world right now, UK native Banksy, from when he was here promoting his movie "Exit Through The Gift Shop". Here are the addresses if you wish to view them:

• Graffiti Alley- In the Fashion District, Queen St. West from Spadina
• Banksy- All seven are in different locations, to see them all click here

Banksy in Torontohttp://torontoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/20100509banksy_1.jpg

What are your opinions on Graffiti? Have you seen any pieces that you think belong in a gallery perhaps? Leave a comment.