Stickers

In contrast to a number of time-consuming and site-specific approaches to street art, many artists have pushed the limits of spontaneous creativity, finding more immediate ways of getting up than with the use of a spray can, and the means to get up regardless of the constraints of a particular location. In the tradition of the mass‑produced print, the creation of multiples has gained popularity. Stickers, in particular, have become an obsession for many street artists as the perfect, lo‑fi, viral means of saturating a city with images and messages. The creative process takes place away from the street (in a studio or home), where the artist has the freedom to refine ideas over time. The act of placing the work of art, however, is spontaneous and adrenalin‑fuelled with an impact that is instant.

The prospect for a much wider distribution of images is central to the popularity of stickers as a street art form. Many stickers are traded among practitioners or can be purchased in bulk deals. Stickers, as opposed to other street art forms, can travel great distances with great efficiency, can be seen in more places and, most importantly, can be placed by any enthusiast wanting to participate in the creative act of modifying public space. Stickers provide street artists with a quick, easy and discreet way of getting up, free from the usual in‑situ constraints associated with one‑off, site‑specific pieces.

What I like about stickers is that they are small enough not to be noticed by the Council but they do get noticed by the right audience. I love the engagement on the street, behind the road signs, where everyone places their stickers. If people really love them, it is a little trophy that they can also take away with them.
Mini Graff