Photographer Alex Cheban has taken numerous photos of Chernobyl’s graffiti — you can see many more shots at his website.
Even though Pripyat is by no means a hopping town, people are still dismayed by the street artists. Notes Cheban (via Google Translate):
There is a view that is the desecration of graves, but I think this is one of the forms of modern art in the urban environment. This is just a platform, which now is an incredible stimulus for the tourism, creative and implementation of various art projects.
I think it’s fascinating that street art, which is often branded and stereotyped as a sign of urban decay, has become a signifier of an active human presence in Pripyat. Here are some more photos from Cheban.
[Via English Russia]
Awnshegh
Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 8:44 AMIf it wasn’t painted onto a wall it wouldn’t be graffiti it would simply be, art.
I may have a few qualms about the canvas – do I pump the fist for artistic expression or frown in disdain at the desecration of a heritage landmark – I’m not entirely sure. But the art shown in these pictures has me leaning towards the former.
Michael Hudson
Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 10:35 AMThese aren’t your average childish tags, these are works of art and expression, i approve, as long as it doesn’t get out of hand
Mike
Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 1:43 PMIndeed. Graffiti that’s just someone’s stupid ‘tag’ is horrible, who the hell wants to see ‘f4ROut’ in messy black written across their fence. But these pics are great, real talent and skill went into making them. Banksy was a good example of an expert in street art. Your average pimpled angst-filled teenager is not.
Tempy
Friday, April 29, 2011 at 12:36 AMthe pool picture is from cod4