Contemporary Street art, or better known "Graffiti" has become the new artwork of choice in funky boutique hotels. We have seen these "works of art" adorning the walls of trendy cafes, restaurants and clubs and now the trend has moved into hotel interiors. Street Art mixed with clean contemporary pieces of furniture seems to be the look. Some would argue that this will encourage similar behaviour with guests adding messages or drawing on walls which could lead to uncensored imagery and text? Moving to "Light Painting", also known as Light Graffiti or (partially) Lumasol where, with the flick of a switch the writing illuminates creating something reminiscent of a crime scene! The advantage of this type of graffiti art could work in the hotel room giving the guest an option as to whether they want to see this type of art or, if they prefer to have a plain wall by using this light option.
Graffiti is an integral part of the city subculture, a way of artistic expression and, in some cases real pieces of art, but where does it belong? We have become familiar with the works of world-renowned graffiti artist Banksy, whose illegal street art led to recognition and wealth in the most open gallery an artist could wish for! Often we see graffiti bringing colour to gritty, dirty city walls and transforming them into masterpieces. Then there is the less talented artist with the grunge street mentality who expose us to their idea of self-expression. The idea of something different in hotel interiors is always refreshing to the discerning traveller, however does this fit the bill for corporates or do we prefer our graffiti on the street?
Who knows where we will see it next? Like it or loathe it, it is part of the world's mega city culture and is coming to a hotel near you!