Slurred Speech

Stencil graffiti, made famous by Banksy in the last 4 or 5 years, has actually been a form of street art for 25 years. You can apply cardboard, paper or other types of surfaces (such as plastics) to create templated imagery and text. You merely cut around the design from your cardboard/paper/other surface, place then set this surface against a wall (for example), and roll-on paint or spray into the cut-out shapes.

In essence, the method of stencilling involves applying paint across a stencil to form an image on a surface underneath. It’s also possible to employ multiple layers of stencils to create an illusion of depth or even add colours.

So why do some people prefer to be a stencil artist? For a few, it is a great platform to put across a political point. Other stencil artists appreciate the publicity that their artwork can acquire. Some only wish their work to be viewed. Because the stencil stays unchanged throughout its use, it is easier for an artist to speedily copy what could be an involved artwork at a very quick pace, when compared to other established tagging methods, so without question, there is also a persuasive promotional reason to get involved with stencilling.

Banksy has applied stencilling as a way to make a point, often quite succinctly, leaving the spectator to get the message themselves. This is often why people enjoy his work so much, as they force the viewer to contemplate on the significance behind the artwork. Banksy artwork is now being reprinted on posters, t-shirts and canvas, such is the popularity of Banksy.