From the street to the gallery: Evolution and influence of street art on contemporary art culture

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanisms and consequences of integrating street art into formal art institutions and urban projects, as well as its impact on the development of the contemporary art market. The study included a survey of students of the Faculty of Arts at Kryvyi Rih State Pedagogical University. The results of the study highlighted the significance of street art as a means of visual expression of social, political, and cultural issues. Street art, specifically graffiti and murals, acts not only as an art form, but also as a platform for intensifying social dialogue and protest. The study found that street art has been successful in addressing concerns associated with human rights violations, political injustice, and environmental issues, thus mobilising social movements. The study confirmed that street art is an essential tool for conveying social and political messages that influence public opinion and promote social change. The use of public spaces to express ideas on topical issues enables street art to serve as a visual manifesto of contemporary social consciousness. The integration of street art into the gallery context reinforces its cultural and social impact, ensuring the recognition and preservation of works. This process fosters cultural dialogue and heritage creation, expanding the boundaries of traditional art and enhancing its impact on contemporary society. The study also confirmed that the commercialisation of street art has both positive and negative impacts. While it increases the accessibility and professional opportunities for artists, it can also threaten the authenticity and critical acuity of the art form. Maintaining a balance between commercial interests and cultural values is important to ensure its long-term relevance in the modern world. The analysis of the feedback from the students of the faculty of art confirmed that the use of latest technologies in street art opens wide opportunities for innovation in artistic practice and interaction with the public, which contributes to its development and influence on the cultural and social sphere