Street Communication: Documentation of Two Graffiti Artists and their Works in Akropong Akuapem
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/jcomm.3548Keywords:
Art, Artists, Graffiti, Street Communication, Culture, Documentation, Akropong-AkuapemAbstract
Purpose: The study documents the works of two graffiti artists in Akropong Akuapem, Ghana, and how their artworks communicate. It explores how their creative practices reflect cultural identity, social commentary, and youth empowerment.
Methodology: A qualitative case study design was used. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, field observations, and photographic documentation. Thematic and visual analyses guided the interpretation of findings.
Findings: Results show that the two artists come from different personal and educational backgrounds but share similar motivations. They use graffiti to preserve cultural heritage, promote youth development, and spark conversations on social and political issues.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: Their works incorporate Akan symbols, traditional proverbs, and festival imagery. At the same time, they blend these with contemporary influences such as music culture, digital design, and Afro-futuristic aesthetics. The graffiti pieces function as cultural archives, educational tools, and platforms for dialogue. The study also reveals challenges. These include limited access to resources, lack of institutional support, high material costs, and persistent public misconceptions about graffiti. The study concluded that graffiti in Akropong is more than decoration. It has contributed to education, cultural preservation, and social transformation. Through the theory of symbolic interactionism, the study added a formal recognition of graffiti, provision of resources, mentorship for young artists, and community initiatives to strengthen its developmental and tourism value.
Keywords: Art, Artists, Graffiti, Street Communication, Culture, Documentation, Akropong-Akuapem
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Copyright (c) 2026 Isaac Horsu, Samuel Manasseh Yirenkyi, Obeng Kelvin Kwabi Osae
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