Mention the word graffiti and what typically comes to mind is something unpleasant and disgusting such as indecent language scrawled on a shop wall or vulgar images. Most graffiti is characterized by vandalism of property that does not belong to the perpetrator. Graffiti also displays negative graphics that promote some kind of vulgar message such as violence, sex, drugs, gangs and racism. On the other hand, when the terms “street” and “art” come together, an explosion of colorful creations on whiteboards in the street comes to mind. Although street art is technically considered graffiti, it is a type of graffiti with positive qualities, but some society figures believe that street art is, in some way, disruptive. When used correctly, street art can be appreciated artistically and socially. Despite the negative stigma associated with graffiti, street art has emerged as a valuable progressive art form whose extensive history, rise in popularity, and drive for social change justify its classification as fine art. Those who argue that street art is nothing more than graffiti that infringes on personal property do not characterize it as a valuable art form. These critics argue that some places can't afford to keep the property clean; if the situation really gets worse, the whole building will have to be repainted, and that is expensive (O'Lear). Unwanted artwork will cause economic problems with the removal of art from illegally used canvases such as buildings, billboards and sidewalks. Critics also argue that there are numerous outlets that people could use that are more refined and less destructive. (O'Lear). Turkey Stremmel, co-owner of Stremmel Gallery, suggests there are other ways to create artists' plaster murals on street surfaces. Artis......middle of paper......sh." The Nevada Sagebrush [Reno, Nevada] April 4, 2011. The Nevada Sagebrush - The student newspaper of the University of Nevada, Reno. University of Nevada, April 4, 2011. Web. December 5, 2011. "Tracing the Roots of Modern Street Art and Graffiti." December 2011. .Wildman, Luke “Why Banksy Canvas Entertainment Items Are So Popular - EzineMark - Free Content Article Directory. Web. 05 Dec. 2011. .