Walls of Passion: Graffiti and Murals as Mediators and Co-creators of Emotions in Urban Space

Abstract Book of the 10th International Conference on Modern Approaches in Humanities and Social Sciences

Year: 2025

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Walls of Passion: Graffiti and Murals as Mediators and Co-creators of Emotions in Urban Space

Ana Albin

ABSTRACT:

The theme of this paper is graffiti and murals in the city of Zadar, which, as a means of communication, draw attention by creating diverse experiences and emotions in people. In this digital age, analog messages such as graffiti and murals reflect social identity. On one hand, graffiti are artistic rebellions and appeals to current social issues, while on the other hand, murals seem to be dedicated artistic works. The symbiosis of graffiti and murals in space creates walls of passion, and at the same time shapes the cultural landscape. The cultural landscape, as a living space, is defined by its own being, becoming the spirit of the place (genius loci). The landscape, as a space shaped by history, is intimately connected to human feelings of belonging as the essence of human existence. The goal of the research is to highlight the importance of geographic study of street texts that shape space but also co-create emotions about the space in which one lives. Achieving this goal can contribute to a better understanding and appreciation of these elements in an appropriate manner. The research methodology will be based on the analysis of collected data and information related to the issue of graffiti and murals. Methods of compilation and description of existing books, scientific articles, and internet sources will be used. Additionally, fieldwork will involve collecting photographs of graffiti and murals, analyzing and describing their presence, locations, and messages.

Keywords: Graffiti, Murals, Urban Space, Walls of Passion, Cultural Landscape