In major cities like New York City and Los Angeles, many buildings showcase writing and drawings plastered on their walls. However, these vibrant pieces of graffiti, have been under constant fire since they made their first appearance in the 1960s. Many, including myself, refer to graffiti as a form of art, but others call it a form of vandalism. 

Graffiti is a form of self-expression. It can transform bleak walls into beautiful pieces of art. 

With these images come important, meaningful messages. In many cases, even more so in 2020, this art form is an outlet for not only creative expression but for activism as well. Around June of this year, graffiti artists and muralists created memorials gracing numerous building walls honoring George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and the many others who have been killed by the police. A large number of buildings were used to amplify the Black Lives Matter movement. 

These beautiful pieces have given many artists a voice, a passion, and a purpose. And at the same time, they have given members of society a way to formally express their views. That alone is exactly what art is.