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This podcast is designed to give English students extra practice by discussing events, history, culture and language.
Street Art: Art of Vandalism? B1+ level
Welcome back to the VivaLing podcast. Today we’re talking about street art. Some people feel that it makes cities more colorful and creative. Others believe it is simply vandalism.
Street art exists in many cities around the world. In Berlin, giant murals cover old buildings. In Melbourne, famous laneways are filled with graffiti and paintings. In Bogotá, artists often create political murals with social messages.
One of the world’s most famous street artists is Banksy. His works are often humorous, political, and mysterious. His art sometimes appears overnight in public places, and people are often surprised to discover a new piece on a city wall.
Street art festivals are also becoming more popular. Events like Upfest in Bristol, England, and MURAL Festival in Montreal, Canada, attract artists and tourists from around the world. These festivals celebrate creativity and give artists legal spaces to paint large public murals.
Let’s listen to two people with opposing views about street art, but before we listen, here are some useful words:
Mural — a large painting on a wall
Eye-catching — attracting attention because people notice it easily
Creative — using imagination to produce new and original ideas
Political — connected to social or government ideas
Illegal — against the law
Damaged — broken or destroyed
Public space — an area everyone can use
Vandalism — the damage of public or private property
Now let’s hear two different opinions. Lele feels street art is creative, and Tricia thinks it’s vandalism. Let’s listen to Lele.
I believe street art can make cities more beautiful and interesting. Some murals are incredibly colorful and eye-catching. They can transform old and boring neighborhoods into creative public spaces.
When I visited Berlin, I saw detailed paintings that told stories about history and culture. I think this kind of art gives personality to a city.
I also admire artists like Banksy because their work makes people think about political and social problems. Street art is not always just decoration — sometimes it sends an important message.
Of course, artists should respect buildings and communities, but legal murals and festivals can support tourism and local culture.
Tricia has a different view.
Personally, I think graffiti is often vandalism. Even if some paintings look creative, many artists paint on walls without permission. That’s illegal, and property owners must pay to clean or repair damaged buildings.
I understand why people enjoy colorful murals, but not all graffiti is artistic or meaningful. Sometimes public spaces can look messy or neglected.
I also think there should be limits. One person may see political street art as creative expression, while another person may find it offensive.
To me, artists should create their work in galleries or legal public projects, not on private property.
Let’s check your comprehension.
Which cities are mentioned in the podcast?
Berlin, Melbourne, Bogotá, Bristol and Montreal
What is one reason Lele thinks street art is positive?
It can make old neighborhoods new, creative public spaces.
It can tell stories about history, culture and social or political issues.
What is one problem Tricia mentions about graffiti?
It can be illegal, cost property owners money, look messy and can offend some people.
What’s your opinion of street art?
Your homework: Find a piece of street art on the internet or in your city and really think about how it makes you feel. Is it art to you? Is it vandalism? Tell it to your VivaLing coach or family member.