THE WRITING IS ON THE WALL: AN ASSET-BASED APPROACH TO STREET ART

Abstract

This paper is written from the perspective of Street Art Murals Australia (‘SAMA’), a social enterprise which takes an asset-based and community development approach to street art. SAMA fosters a creative outlet for youth and encourages community involvement through the development of legal avenues of street art. SAMA also recognises the importance of a vibrant street art culture to a more inclusive society, urban renewal and beautification, and creative economies. The current legal and regulatory measures concerning street art, taken by local and state governments in Australia, could be replaced with an approach which recognises the benefits of a self-regulating street art culture and community public art intervention. Society has much to gain by placing street art in the public art domain rather than relying purely on punitive measures. Young street artists deserve to be able to express their artistic and creative freedom in public spaces.