What is Guerrilla Art?

A strange phenomenon has swept the world in the past few years-notes of encouragement appear, taped to mirrors. Messages of love and happiness show up like magic written in sidewalk chalk. Trees are wrapped in yarn, paper sculptures perch on window ledges, and poems adorn the walls of side lots and light poles.

This phenomenon is a curious thing known as guerrilla art (or guerrilla poetry). Taking its tactics from guerrilla warfare, guerrilla art takes the violence out of sneak attacks and focuses on putting up anonymous art in secret for others to find. Several projects have sprung out of this movement, and their purpose is to spread happiness, awareness, and a love of art.

Guerrilla art doesn't have to be fancy or elaborate, but nor should it be careless. Many guerrilla artists find great joy in tailoring their art to certain spots or situations-for example, posting a drawing of a boat near a fountain or writing a haiku to leave in a park.

It should be noted that guerrilla art should never be permanent, and vandalism is not guerrilla art. Guerrilla art is intended to be positive and non-damaging to people, wildlife, or property. If you wish to start your own guerrilla art campaign, remember to be courteous, be safe (don't climb the side of a building and get yourself injured!), and don't find yourself in places that you shouldn't be.

The next time you're out and about, try your hand at guerrilla art. Chalk a smiley face, leave a poem, or post a drawing. Spread the art!