Banksy: 'Should graffiti be judged on the same level as modern art? Of course not: It's way more important than that.'

Should graffiti be judged on the same level as modern art? Of course not: It's way more important than that.

In his thought-provoking quote, Banksy challenges the traditional hierarchy of artistic forms by asking whether graffiti should be judged on the same level as modern art. His answer is a resounding no, as he boldly asserts, "It's way more important than that." At first glance, this quote may seem to suggest that graffiti holds a higher value than modern art, but delving deeper reveals a more nuanced message. Banksy's words not only challenge the boundaries of artistic appreciation but also invite us to question the underlying principles by which we evaluate and categorize art.Summarizing Banksy's quote, we understand that he believes graffiti should not be confined to the same level of significance as modern art. By making this statement, he implores us to recognize that graffiti is not merely an act of vandalism or rebellion, but a potent means of self-expression. This art form is often created by individuals who don't have the resources or platform to engage with the art world in more traditional ways. Banksy reminds us that graffiti has the power to transcend boundaries, provoke dialogue, and challenge societal norms with its raw and unfiltered expressions.However, let us delve into an unexpected philosophical concept to give our article a twist of intrigue. It is fascinating to consider Banksy's quote in the light of the philosophy of art appreciation proposed by Arthur Danto. Danto argued that art is defined by its context and interpretation, rather than by its inherent aesthetic qualities. He famously proclaimed that "art ended in the 1960s," suggesting that with the advent of conceptual art, the traditional aesthetic criteria for art became obsolete.Banksy's quote aligns with Danto's philosophy, as it challenges the conventional notions of how art should be judged. By highlighting the importance of graffiti beyond the realm of contemporary art, Banksy emphasizes the inherent social and political commentary ingrained within this powerful form of expression. In doing so, he disrupts the notion that art must conform to certain institutionalized standards in order to be deemed worthy of appreciation.Comparing and contrasting Danto's philosophy with Banksy's quote, we can see a striking similarity in their criticism of the art world's often elitist and exclusionary nature. Both Danto and Banksy advocate for art to escape the confines of traditional aesthetics and embrace a more inclusive interpretation. While Danto focuses on the conceptual shift in art, Banksy's emphasis lies in the democratization of artistic expression and the importance of engaging with art outside of established institutions.It becomes evident that Banksy's quote not only highlights the impact and significance of graffiti but also invites us to reconsider the criteria by which we evaluate art. His words challenge the notion that art should be confined to a selective group of individuals or a specific set of aesthetic guidelines. By asserting that graffiti is "way more important," Banksy confronts us with the idea that art, in its rawest form, has the potential to transcend boundaries and evoke powerful emotions within its viewers.In conclusion, Banksy's quote encourages a reevaluation of our perception of art and the boundaries we impose upon it. By asserting that graffiti carries a level of importance beyond that of modern art, he invites us to question the established criteria for evaluating artistic worth. In aligning his message with the philosophy of Arthur Danto, Banksy challenges us to embrace a more inclusive approach to art appreciation and recognize the transformative power of artistic expression in all of its forms. Whether we agree or not, Banksy's quote ignites a conversation that pushes us to explore the multifaceted nature of art and how we come to understand its significance in society.