Visual analytics of graffiti spatial patterns across 30 European city centres

Abstract

Graffiti as an urban phenomenon comes in different forms and materials, from simple spray slogans to wall paintings and art, containing multi-thematic content. Despite the contradictory nature of various literature opinions, reports of a positive association between wall-graffiti and fear of crime or streetscape value have emerged. However, comparative urban studies registering graffiti locations are non-existent, thereby hindering the benchmarking of urban liveability. In this work, the spatial patterns of graffiti-vandalism across 30 European city centres were investigated, using Google Street View–derived observations. A significant variation in graffiti presence across Europe was recorded, ranging from about 3%–9% of street segments in London, Oslo and Vienna, to roughly 70%–76% in Madrid, Athens and Sofia. In addition, their spatial polarisation that reflects the presence of potential socio-spatial inequities requiring further attention was demonstrated. Overall, the created geo-visualisations could enable European policymakers to facilitate better-informed response strategies and researchers to delve into the effects of graffities on urban systems and societies.