Legal and evolving graffiti

From temporary, ephemeral and politicized programs to a durable platform for mentorship, creation, and empowerment

Abstract

In this article I argue for ways in which legal graffiti in León today can be improved. Using theories of the right to the city, critiques of the idea of “broken windows” and “zero tolerance,” and Rossanna Reguillo-Cruz’s notion of “inclusive exclusion” I develop a model for a legal graffiti institute. Said program has four parts: 1) free paint spaces, 2) artistic murals, 3) workshops for youth, and 4) events and expositions. This program must be directed and led by the youth and artists themselves, not by corporate interests or political parties.