Historical Background of Graffiti and Street Art – Evolution from Concept to Legal Framework in the U.S. and India

Graffiti and street art have evolved from being seen as an act of vandalism to becoming recognized as significant forms of artistic and social expression. On one hand where in U.S., graffiti gained popularity in the 1970s, especially in Philadelphia and New York, as part of hip-hop culture. This statute has helped to protect the artists' rights over their work, marking a shift in legal attitudes. Over time, many cities in the U.S. have adopted policies that balance property rights with artistic freedom. In India, graffiti and street art has deep historical roots which is mostly influenced by traditional folk art which have evolved through cultural and customary practices. While the contemporary graffiti that has emerged as a tool for to express social and political contents, it lacks clear legal protection. Indian laws often classify graffiti as defacement of property rather than recognizing it as creative work. Despite government-supported street art projects, the legal status of independent graffiti remains uncertain. This article compares the historical and legal perspectives of graffiti and street art in the U.S. and India, highlighting the need for a structured legal framework that recognizes street art’s cultural and artistic value while respecting property rights.