# Roblox Graffiti Art Using Virtual Reality Devices: Reality and Spatial Presence in a Virtual Space
## 2 Background  
### Development Process of Graffiti  
Modern graffiti, as it is generally understood today, refers to the artwork created using spray paint on public facilities or building walls. This art form has evolved to encompass a wide range of styles, from basic and straightforward expressions to more elaborate and intricate paintings. One of the key features of modern graffiti is the use of typography, which is often complex and artistically integrated into the designs, as depicted in Figure 1.  
The development of graffiti as a prominent form of urban art dates back to the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in bustling urban centers like New York City. Initially, graffiti was primarily composed of tags, which are stylized signatures of the artists. These tags were a way for individuals to mark a territory or express their identity. Over time, these tags evolved into more complex and artistic forms, including large murals which covered entire walls or sides of buildings [11; 12].  
The rise of graffiti coincided with a period of significant socio-political change. For many artists, graffiti became a medium for social and political expression [13]. It was a way for voices that were often marginalized or overlooked to be heard in a very public and visual manner. The walls of cities became canvases for commentary on societal issues, personal messages, and artistic expression [14].  
Graffiti's evolution from simple tags to elaborate murals reflects a broader conceptual and expressive development in the art world. Since the 1970s, discussions about graffiti have become increasingly prominent in art circles, often focusing on its role as a form of avant-garde art [15]. These discussions revolve around topics such as the legitimacy of graffiti as an art form, its impact on urban spaces, and its expression of social and political themes [16]  
Expanding this perspective, academic studies in art history, sociology, and urban studies have explored graffiti's role as a voice for marginalized groups and a tool for identity construction in urban environments [17].  
In art history, graffiti's journey from streets to galleries is epitomized by artists like [PERSON], who began under the tag \"SAMO\" in New York City. His work, merging street art with various artistic styles, exemplifies the transition from graffiti to recognized fine art, challenging traditional art norms [18]. This transformation, pivotal in post-modern art, highlights graffiti's role in introducing new aesthetics and perspectives, often studied to understand the evolution of contemporary art [19].  
Sociologically, graffiti serves as a lens for viewing subcultures and identity formation, particularly among youth. Graffiti culture in the 1970s' Bronx, closely tied to hip-hop, is a classic example of how street art helped shape community identity. Moreover, graffiti is analyzed as a medium of social and political commentary, offering insights into public sentiments during times of unrest. The graffiti in Athens during Greece's economic crisis are a poignant example, illustrating how public expression in urban spaces can reflect and influence societal narratives.  
Figure 1: New York City subway trains and Chicago graffiti in 1973.  
In urban studies, graffiti's impact extends to urban regeneration and policy-making. The Wynwood Walls in Miami demonstrate how graffiti can transform neglected areas into vibrant cultural hubs, prompting discussions on urban renewal. Cities like Melbourne, renowned for their graffiti-laden laneways, provide case studies for urban planners and policymakers, balancing the need to control vandalism while fostering urban art and culture.