'Perception,' a 'calligraffiti' street art project in Cairo's community of Manshiyat Naser, is not only beautiful and interesting, but it draws attention to one of the poorest and most downtrodden sectors of the Egyptian metropolis. The conception of local Egyptian street artist eL Seed, the piece can be seen in fits and spurts as citizens walk through the neighborhood, but, when viewed from a higher perspective, it reveals itself as a giant ball of stylized trash.
Perception is poignant in that its location, Manshiyat Naser, is known within Cairo as a community inundated with the trash that flows out of Cairo's core. The street art thus highlights how people within the city are overwhelmed with the problem of excess junk while, from a distance, that junk's toll is more than evident.
Perhaps most the hopeful aspect of the calligraffiti is its sheer beauty: though the circle resembles a junk heap, its bright colors and interwoven lines captivate any viewer, no matter their perspective.
Perspective-Dependent Street Art
'Calligraffiti' Freshens Up Cairo's Messiest Community
Trend Themes
1. Street Art Revival - There is a growing trend of using street art as a medium to revitalize and bring attention to underprivileged communities.
2. Environmental Awareness Art - Artists are using their work to raise awareness about environmental issues, such as excessive waste and pollution.
3. Perception-changing Art - Art projects that reveal hidden or alternative perspectives are gaining popularity in the art world.
Industry Implications
1. Urban Regeneration - The urban regeneration industry can leverage street art projects to transform and rejuvenate neglected neighborhoods.
2. Environmental Conservation - The environmental conservation industry can collaborate with artists to raise awareness about environmental issues through creative means.
3. Art and Culture - The art and culture industry can explore new forms of art, such as perception-changing installations, to engage audiences in thought-provoking ways.