Urban art history is full of surprising twists and facts. While we tend to associate the history of urban art with contemporary life, it is actually far older than that. Urban art dates as far back as the earliest human cities.

​

Since people were creating cities, there have been artists exploring the boundaries of style and expression by putting their works up on these structures. Everywhere from Ancient Egypt to Rome had urban artists tagging buildings for the same reasons we do today. They expressed political opinion, created new art, and enjoyed themselves.

​

Our modern sense of urban art history is deeply connected with the New York subway graffiti scene of the 1970s. This urban artwork shapes so much of what we think of when it comes to contemporary urban art. Many of today’s most iconic street artists are directly linked back to the style and motives of the 1970s. This history gets buried under the rush and noise of modern life. Our magazine looks to reverse these trends and reconnect us to the roots of one of the most expressive art forms ever seen.

​

The history of urban art has always been about politics. For thousands of years, urban art has been one of the best ways for the anonymous masses to have their voices heard. Having artwork up on public transit, city streets, and major buildings connects the public with your message. Our magazine tackles this political history head on. We want to go deep into the political realities and the material conditions that inspired so much of today’s best street art. We can’t separate our history from the politics that shaped it. Our magazine is here to help you explore the modern and historic context for urban art.

​

Check out our online magazine to learn more about the history of urban art and how it shapes today’s most popular artists.

​