In my early childhood growing up in the heart of Los Angeles, I was always fascinated with graffiti art work but also confused by it. Not understanding at first why I saw countless pieces all over town on walls, trees, traffic signs, bus stop benches, I thought it was perfectly acceptable thing to do, till I was getting chased around the house by my mom and dad with a belt for “tagging” on the side of the house.

Since then I was told graffiti work was done by gangs and to never do it again [while my dad clinched his belt] *shudder*. To me in my experience, graffiti has always had a bad rep which is sad because the graffiti work that was created at the annual Graffiti Gone Global/Primary Flight event is just jaw dropping. My cousin Josh introduced me to this event as I started to appreciate this type of art medium more.

The event is held the first weekend of December in sunny Miami, Florida. (The Wynwood Art District to be exact). Here, graffiti artists from all over the world invade the art district to show their work and start on a freshly painted blank wall(s).

Whether world famous, underground famous, or even new comers, the event aims to bring this style of art culture together without drama. Similarly, the type of crowd that this event attracts is different from what I’ve seen growing up.

Fashionable people, trendy people, hipsters, chic…even old white people in boat shoes are in attendance. There’s literally something for everyone. If that wasn’t enough, the food trucks gather in a small nearby field and serve amazing food (nom nom). This was my 2nd year attending in 2011 and can’t wait for what 2012 brings. One thing is for sure, I’ll have my camera packed.