The difference between a Tag and a Graffiti

Feb 10, 2024

By ronald lolia

La différence entre un Tag et un Graffiti Canvanation

The terms "tag" and "graffiti" are often used in the context of urban art, but they refer to two different forms of artistic expression on public surfaces. Here are the main differences between a tag and graffiti:

1. Tag:

Definition: A tag is a stylized signature, usually consisting of a name, nickname or pseudonym, painted or drawn quickly on a surface. Tags are often simple and quick to create.
Size: Tags are generally small and can be as small as a few centimeters in height.
Objective: Tags are often used to mark the territory of an artist or group. They are often seen as a quick and discreet form of expression.
Style: Tags are characterized by their rapid stylization and their appearance that is often difficult to decipher for the uninitiated.

2. Graffiti:

Definition: Graffiti is a more elaborate and complex form of art, which can include images, stylized letters, characters and narrative elements. Graffiti can be more detailed and artistic than simple tagging.
Size: Graffiti can vary greatly in size, from small pieces to large-scale mural works.
Objective: Unlike tags, graffiti can have an artistic or social objective. Some graffiti artists seek to convey messages, create public art, or add color and life to urban spaces.
Style: Graffiti offers more artistic freedom, allowing artists to develop a unique style. They can be colorful, detailed and incorporate different artistic techniques.

3. Legality:

Tagging: Tagging is often associated with vandalism and may be illegal if done without permission on private property.
Graffiti: Perception of graffiti in terms of legality can depend on a variety of factors, including permission from owners, local laws, and artistic intent. Some graffiti is created legally as part of artistic projects or collaborations with local authorities.

What is the origin of the word tag?

The origin of the word "tag" in the context of graffiti dates back to the beginnings of graffiti culture on the streets of New York in the 1960s and 1970s. The term "tag" is used to describe the stylized signature or name of 'an artist, usually painting quickly on a surface, often using spray paint. This practice emerged as a distinct form of expression within graffiti culture.

The exact origin of the term "tag" is unclear, but it is probably derived from the English word "tag" meaning "label" or "mark". In the context of graffiti, the tag is often used to mark the territory of an artist or group, like a signature or a label.

Graffiti culture has evolved over the decades from simple tags to more elaborate and complex art forms. Today, the term "tag" is still widely used to describe these stylized signatures, while graffiti encompasses a variety of artistic expressions, including murals, frescoes, and more elaborate pieces.

What made tags spread all over the world?

The rise and spread of tags around the world can be attributed to several factors, including cultural, social and historical elements. Here are some reasons that have contributed to the global spread of tags:

1. Hip-Hop Culture in New York:

Tags emerged in the 1960s and 1970s against the backdrop of the emerging hip-hop culture in New York. Young artists, often from disadvantaged neighborhoods, used public spaces to express their creativity and identity.

2. Media and Popularity:

Graffiti culture, including tagging, has gained visibility through media, particularly photography and film. Documentaries such as "Style Wars" helped popularize the art form to a wider audience.

3. Expression of Identity and Territory:

Tags are often used as a form of personal expression and to mark territory. This contributed to their spread because they became a way for artists to claim and leave their mark in urban spaces.

4. Cultural Contagion Effect:

The culture of graffiti, and by extension tags, has had a cultural contagion effect. Artists have been inspired by the style and creativity of tagging, helping to spread the practice across communities and cities around the world.

5. Social Networks and Internet:

The advent of social networks and the Internet has considerably accelerated the diffusion of tags. Artists can now share their creations online, reaching a global audience in an instant.

6. Social and Political Demands:

In many cases, tags have been used as a means of social and political advocacy. Artists have used this form of expression to draw attention to local, national or global issues, contributing to the spread of tagging as a means of protest.

7. Influence of Popular Culture:

Tags have also been influenced by popular culture, including music, fashion and visual arts. This connection with popular culture has contributed to the global popularity of tags.

Although graffiti, including tagging, can be controversial due to its association with vandalism, it has also been recognized as a legitimate art form. Some artists have managed to transcend cultural boundaries to become influential figures in the contemporary art world. This duality has contributed to the omnipresence of tags on a global scale.

Why are tags prohibited?

Tagging is often considered illegal for several reasons, mainly related to vandalism and private property. Here are some of the main reasons why tags are generally banned:

1. Vandalism and Destruction of Property:

Tags are often made without the consent of the owner of the surface on which they are affixed. This is considered an act of vandalism because it damages public or private property.

2. Cost of Repairs:

Cleaning and repairing tags can result in significant costs for owners, whether individuals, businesses or governments. These costs often include cleaning labor, purchasing materials, and the time needed to restore a property's appearance.

3. Aesthetic Displeasure:

Tags can alter the aesthetic appearance of a building or public space. Homeowners and communities may view this as an eyesore and seek to preserve the visual integrity of their surroundings.

4. Respect for Private Property:

Placing a tag on property without authorization violates the right to private property. Laws protect the rights of property owners to control the use of their property and decide how it should appear.

5. Public Safety:

In some cases, tags may be associated with criminal activity or gangs. Authorities may view graffiti as a sign of degradation of public safety and seek to deter such activities.

6. Respect for Public Spaces:

Public spaces must be preserved for the benefit of the entire community. Unauthorized tags can contribute to a general deterioration of these spaces, affecting the quality of life of residents.

7. Contested Artistic Legitimacy:

Although graffiti can be considered a legitimate art form, the artistic legitimacy of tagging can be contested. Some view tags as selfish signatures with no artistic value, while others see artistic potential even in these simpler forms of expression.

It is important to note that the perception of tags can vary depending on the cultural, social and local context. Some places have taken more tolerant approaches to artistic graffiti, allowing legal murals and spaces dedicated to artistic expression, while in other areas the penalties for illegal tagging may be more severe.

What was the first graffiti that became truly popular?

The history of graffiti is complex, and it is difficult to determine the very first piece of graffiti that became truly popular. However, one of the first graffiti pieces to gain international fame is often attributed to Darryl McCray, known as "Cornbread". Cornbread, a Philadelphia native, is often considered one of the pioneers of modern graffiti.

In the 1960s, Cornbread began marking its territory by painting its name on city walls, including subways and buildings in Philadelphia. He became famous for his massive and omnipresent tags around the city. The story goes that Cornbread even painted his name on an elephant at the Philadelphia Zoo.

Cornbread's success attracted media attention, making him one of the first graffiti artists to receive media coverage. His story helped popularize graffiti culture and inspired many other urban artists to express themselves through street art.

Although Cornbread was not alone in contributing to the emergence of graffiti, his impact in the 1960s was significant in the recognition of this form of urban artistic expression. Since then, graffiti has become a global movement with many artists bringing their creativity and artistic vision to urban spaces around the world.