Graffiti (plural of graffito) are writing or drawings that have been scribbled, scratched, or painted illicitly on a wall or other surface, often within public view. Graffiti range from simple written words to elaborate wall paintings, and they have existed since ancient times, with examples dating back to Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire.

In modern times, paint (particularly spray paint) and marker pens have become the most commonly used graffiti materials. In most countries, marking or painting property without the property owner’s permission is considered defacement and vandalism, which is a punishable crime.

Graffiti, in today’s world, are expressions underlying social and political messages and a whole genre of artistic expression is based upon spray paint graffiti styles. Unrelated to hip-hop graffiti, gangs use their own form of graffiti to mark territory or to serve as an indicator of gang-related activities.

EXIF Data

• Camera Type: NIKON D3100
  
  Lens: 18.0-55.0 mm f/3.5-5.6
  
  Date Taken: 2/13/13
  
  Aperture: f/3.8
  
  Shutter Speed: 1/60
  
  ISO: 100
  
  Exposure Mode: Manual
  
  Focal Length: 22.0 mm
  
  White Balance: Auto
  
  Metering Mode: Center Weight
  
  Light Source (In Camera): N/A
  
  Flash: N/A 
  
  Light Source (External): Late afternoon sun
  
  Size: 629 KB
  
  Location: Sacramento, California
  
  Latitude: 38,32.7424N
  
  Longitude: 121,29.8172W
  
  Elevation: 7.70 m