The history of the graffiti scene is traced from its beginnings on the Cape Flats in the 1980s and its roots within hip-hop culture, to the current graffiti scene polarised by contempt and praise.

Inspired by the walls of old buildings, derelict parking lots, and the abandoned homes of the city’s historical District Six and Woodstock suburbs, graffiti art provides a unique insight into the rationale behind the artist’s passion. Street art that, although political at times, is often seductive and features otherworldly creatures on wall works around town. Despite being illegal in Cape Town without a permit, street art is fast becoming a signifier of urban regeneration, a way of beautifying decaying city buildings and areas with inspiring images and messages.