Miami has a new museum that’s very much unique in the world - one dedicated to graffiti.

A picture of the outside of the Museum and its massive graffiti
The Museum of Graffiti has opened in Miami at the beginning of December © Museum of Graffiti

The Museum of Graffiti is “the first-ever museum focused on the history of the global graffiti art movement,” a movement that the museum’s curators describe as one of the most significant ones of the second half of the 20th century. Graffiti is, after all, everywhere, and while some may consider it visual pollution, it is definitely “one of the most democratic” forms of art in the world - now it also has the recognition of a museum dedicated entirely to it.

A picture from the museum's grand opening
The Museum of Graffiti in Miami is the first one of its kind in the world © Museum of Graffiti

The museum is located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Wynwood and it was created by graffiti artist Alan Ket and prominent attorney Allison Freidin. Their hope is that this museum will become a major cultural hub not just for the area but for the rest of the city. The Museum of Graffiti will include a permanent collection, two galleries for temporary exhibition and an immersive installation, as well as a gift shop.

A Supreme skateboard part of the museum's collection
The Museum's gift shop will also feature the possibility of customising one's jean jacket at the denim bar © Museum of Graffiti

The permanent collection will focus on the history of graffiti as an art form, featuring a comprehensive timeline starting from the first taggers in the New York subway in the late 70s and early 80s. “Education is a central component of the museum’s programming plan,” its creators said in a statement, and its aim is to be a go-to resource for students, educators and tourists alike.

“We hope visitors will learn how graffiti transformed sleepy, industrial neighbourhoods into world-class destinations,” said co-creator Allison Freidin. The museum will also host public events like art talks and film screening. Tickets start at $16 for adults - you can find all the additional information you need at the Museum of Graffiti’s official website here.

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This article was first published December 2019 and updated January 2020

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