Street Art

Have you seen the film Exit Through the Gift Shop? It has completely changed my outlook on grafitti and the concept of street art. The film is basically about this French filmmaker, Thierry, who so obsessed with street art and the works of renowned street artist Banksy decides to make a film on said topic. Thanks to Thierry we get to see firsthand how street artists work, their motivations and street art as art that makes sharpe social commentary, employing technique and cutting perspective. Remember that colourful Obama poster? Yup, the work of street artist Shepherd Fairey who works in the shadow of night and the law.  However, after a year or so of much extensive tape rolling and footage, this filmmaker, Thierry, comes out with a film which is vraiment nul by all standards. So instead, Banksy, prime subject in question, takes up the mantle of producing this film about street art which becomes about the phenomenal success of one called Mr. Brainwash, (said French filmmaker, Thierry) whose street art obsession turns him into a street artist and an overnight success. Funny, but true. The film is an edutaining watch and a grateful introduction to the works of Banksy, Shepherd Fairey, Invader and others. Best of all, it got me to think twice about the notion of art and free expression in the public domain. Do, do buy this film.