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Concept information

Preferred term

pieces (graffiti)  

Broader concept

Entry terms

  • masterpiece
  • masterpieces
  • piece (graffiti)

Note

  • "Works of graffiti art that are large, colorful, and stylistically elaborate and that require a greater amount of time and expertise to create." (The J. Paul Getty Trust. ‘Pieces (Graffiti Art)’)

History note

  • Historically, the term "piece" emerged from the graffiti movement in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in New York City. As graffiti evolved from simple tags to more complex works, the term "piece" was used to distinguish these larger, more intricate works from simpler tags and throw-ups. Over time, creating a piece has become a way for graffitists to demonstrate their skill and earn respect within the graffiti community.

Source

  • The J. Paul Getty Trust. ‘Pieces (Graffiti Art)’, Art & Architecture Thesaurus Full Record Display (Getty Research), 25 January 2021. [Date of Access, 1 Aug. 2023]. http://vocab.getty.edu/page/aat/300410272.

Belongs to group

Creator

  • Jona Schlegel
  • Stefan Wogrin

Editorial note

  • The term "pieces" in graffiti is short for "masterpiece" and is now more commonly used. A piece is a type of graffiti writing that is more complex and time-consuming than a throw-up. It is a significant work of graffiti, often large and elaborate, that showcases the skill and creativity of the graffitist. Pieces are typically created using multiple colours and may include 3D effects, characters, and other artistic elements.

URI

https://vocabs.acdh.oeaw.ac.at/indigo/piecesGraffiti

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