Mitman, Tyson ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4093-8485 (2019) DEAD GRAFFITI WRITERS NEVER DIE, THEY JUST FADE AWAY: MEMORIALISING AND REMEMBERING GRAFFITI WRITERS. Nuart Journal, 2 (1). pp. 32-39.

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Abstract

This article examines an esoteric form of memorialisation that is specific to graffiti subcultures. It is one where the friends of a deceased graffiti writer continue to write the dead writer's graffiti name in public space. This form of memorialisation can conceal the fact that the deceased graffiti writer has died to all but initiated graffiti community members, making it appear as if they were still alive and producing new work. This article will explore this form of memorialisation through some ethnographic observations on the death of Philadelphia graffiti writing legend Razz, and will discuss who has privileged access to rightfully produce
these memorials. This type of memorial is a complex and compassionate act of remembrance. It functions both as memorial and as a furtherance of the deceased writer's reputation and street fame.

Item Type:	Article
Status:	Published
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BH Aesthetics E History America > E11 America (General) E History America > E151 United States (General) F History United States, Canada, Latin America > F001 United States local history G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GN Anthropology G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GT Manners and customs H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) H Social Sciences > HM Sociology H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare > HV6001-7220.5 Criminology
School/Department:	York Business School
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/4058

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