“People say graffiti is ugly, irresponsible and childish... but that's only if it's done properly.” Banksy
Rome is a city with countless works of art, any church you decide to visit will most likely take your breath away. There are fountains and statues around any given corner in the city; so many that you'll need more than a lifetime to see them all. Rome also offers wonderful museums and exhibitions. However, if church art or deepening your understanding of Roman history is not necessarily your thing, let me tell you that Rome also houses the other type of art: street art!
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| Pope Francis graffiti @ Spanish Steps Metro |
Street artists are present in the major piazzas of Rome, like in Piazza del Popolo and Trastevere. You'll find a vast array of artists from mimes to clowns, painters and my personal favorites the musicians. On via Frattina, a quick walk from the Spanish Steps, you'll find opera singers and a violinist that gift us with a perfect soundtrack for our Roman vacation.
Graffiti has recently been taken seriously by the city and agreements have been signed between authorities and street artists to grant them exclusive use of certain city walls to display their art or beautify the city. The neighborhood of Testaccio has been used as a canvas for graffiti artists, take a walk around and don't miss a stop at their new market.
One of the street artists that has me running around town trying to collect pictures of his work is #CletAbraham, who decorates DO NOT ENTER signs with rebellious stick men and more. So, if you're planning a trip to Rome, don't forget to keep your eyes open for not only the beautiful art of old Romans, but also the new expressions of art of this generation.
Arrivederci for now,
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