Detroit has become, in 2012, something of a street art mecca. Revok lives there and has spearheaded the Detroit Beautification Project. Beyond, artists like Ron English choose to vacation in the Motor City. The vast expanses warehouse walls offering a distinct opportunity for muralists.
In contrast, the work local work featured in Scott Hocking's Bad Graffiti is as bleak as it is unsophisticated. Hacking's created a visual record of a city in decline, one where residents take to pen and bordered door to voice opinions and call out wrongs. The publication suffers from a peculiar type of voyeurism: Hipster obsession with dilapidated America.
The graffiti included itself isn't "bad meaning good." Or even "bad." It is, however, indicative of public writing with little to no concern for artistic value. Hocking, who isn't from Detroit, seems primarily concerned with cashing in on the two trends of street art and urban exploration.
Still, there are some laughs to be had, so the book is not a total fail.
Available from Black Dog Publishing.
[via Creative Review]
