The origins of graffiti as a medium of street art lies in its role in the rise of the hip hop culture and the counterculture movement. Graffiti establishing itself as a legal form of expression has had an impact on much more than street art; it has challenged and changed varying elements form law enforcement to architecture to urban planning. While some may argue that the legalisation of graffiti results in the loss of the rebellious aura that is associated with graffiti, the commercialisation of graffiti can be considered to be an evolution of the art form to becoming more than just some cool spray painted things in alleyways. This is exemplified in many business employing graffiti as a form on advertisement for themselves.

This tour will take you to five local businesses that have used graffiti as a tool to advertise their store, either by commissioning pieces of their own, or embracing graffiti that already existed on their property.