As I was checking the outskirts of Perth while on the train, the sun reflected off of the window and illuminated heaps of scratches dug deep into the plexiglass. I stepped back to get the full image, and it revealed absolutely nothing. Just a bunch of shitty lines that some group of kids probably decided to create on one bored, hot, meaningless day. If you’re going to deface property, then at least do a good job doing it! All of a sudden the best idea in the world came to me… I’ll freaking document Perth graffiti! Anything from the shit scratches on train windows, to the masterpiece murals on abandoned (or not) brick walls. And so my ventures through sketchy alley-ways and under bridges began.

My favourite thing about searching and finding graffiti (actually graffito is the correct plural… which is what I’ll be using for now on) were the outrageous spots which they were either hidden or very publicly displayed. In most cases, the more congested and populated the area, the more concealed and hidden the graffito. I say most cases because of the infamous Heaven Spot pieces. Any piece which is drawn up in a hard to reach area or risks the outcome of one actually going to heaven, is given the righteous name, Heave Spot.

Okay, so here’s the run down on tags, wildstyles, murals, stickers, and any other term I can think of:

Most of the tags (small scribbles) are found on posts, along alleyway walls, on posters, or on street signs. These tags are generally used for territorial purposes by gangs or groups of hooligans, although sometimes they’re just made by some lonely single who just can’t find a lady.

Wildstyle is a term coined for those pieces you’ll see and stand in front of for 5 minutes trying to figure out what they say… and never actually figure it out. They’re my personal favourites because they involve shading, multiple dimensions to create depth, multiple colours, and a whole lot of creativity.

Murals are murals. They can be wildstyle, tags, or just about anything that covers an area larger than your arm span.

Stickers… well you know those “Hello My Name Is…” stickers? Ya, just stick a tiny tag on the blank area and you’ve just created your graffiti sticker!

And well… that’s about it!

Are these pieces art? Hells ya! I don’t care if they deface private property (as long as it’s not mine). They still take time and creativity to make. Now this doesn’t mean that I think it’s right to be going on private property and defacing it, but I can’t help but to crack a little smile when I see an amazing piece drawn up.

Thanks Perth for your inviting graffito exhibit. My stay here has been a colourful one.

My collection of Perth photo’s can be checked out by clicking HERE

Please feel free to contact me for any info, questions, or comments!

Cheer,

Gavin Firkser

lamar328@hotmail.com

(click on any of the thumbnails to see a larger view)

The side of Paws recently got a makeover as some cool guys came and did an awesome mural type thing. Graffiti at its best.

Paws is a not-for-profit animal rights group that is really cool. Lots of vegan food like icecream and chocolate for sale, organic vegetable market on saturdays and one world cuisine for sale from 11 tuesdays to fridays.
They also have an internet cafe as well. Everyone is really nice and inquiries are welcome.

Located at 112 Beaufort st.
Official site