Encountering graffiti and street art under light and air conditions: Exploring the atmospheric qualities of a place

Abstract

This research paper explores the atmospheric qualities of urban spaces that are influenced by the presence of graffiti and street art. The study has expanded the literature review to provide a stronger theoretical foundation for examining atmospheres within the urban context, with a particular focus on the intersection of graffiti, street art, and the broader sensory experience of a location. Drawing on non-representational sensory ethnographic methods, the research analyses how the interplay of light, air, and the presence of graffiti/street art shapes the experience and perception of a place. Through on-site observation, interviews, and photographic documentation, the paper explores how these transient, environmental factors contribute to a sense of atmosphere and their role in cultivating a place-making experience for users of the space. The finding suggests that the atmospheric conditions of a place, including its sensory qualities, can significantly impact how people perceive and engage with graffiti and street art, evoking a sense of nostalgia, belonging, and attachment to the urban environment.