Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: Graffiti as an urban phenomenon comes in different forms and materials, from simple spray slogans to wall paintings and art, containing multi-thematic content. Despite the contradictory nature of various literature opinions, reports of a positive association between wall-graffiti and fear of crime or streetscape value have emerged. However, comparative urban studies registering graffiti locations are non-existent, thereby hindering the benchmarking of urban liveability. In this work, the spatial patterns of graffiti-vandalism across 30 European city centres were investigated, using Google Street View–derived observations. A significant variation in graffiti presence across Europe was recorded, ranging from about 3%–9% of street segments in London, Oslo and Vienna, to roughly 70%–76% in Madrid, Athens and Sofia. In addition, their spatial polarisation that reflects the presence of potential socio-spatial inequities requiring further attention was demonstrated. Overall, the created geo-visualisations could enable European policymakers to facilitate better-informed response strategies and researchers to delve into the effects of graffities on urban systems and societies.
Institution: National Technical University of Athens
Language: English
Topic: Public Spaces through Art
Subfield: Urban Studies
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,250
OpenAlex ID: W4313403228