In many urban areas, and increasingly in suburban neighborhoods, graffiti and vandalism are a growing nuisance, damaging property and creating an eyesore for community members. Although vandalism, like many crimes, cannot be completely prevented, there are some steps that individuals and communities can take to limit the amount of vandalism that takes place in a particular area
Keeping an area well lit and free of garbage can help decrease the possibility of graffiti. Most graffiti is done away from areas where vandals might be seen or caught, such as the dark sides of retail buildings as night. Making sure that such areas are readily visible helps decrease the likelihood that potential vandals might target a specific area. Use security lighting in areas that are particularly vulnerable to the threat of vandalism
Likewise, keeping an area well maintained indicates that someone cares for the property. Keep areas free of graffiti by painting over or eliminating graffiti as soon as possible. Once an area has been targeted by one vandal it increases the likelihood that others may see the area as a "safe place" to add their own graffiti
Criminologists often refer to this as the "Broken Window Theory." If a building or location has broken windows vandals and graffiti, artists may see this as a place where they can continue what someone else has started. Other graffiti artists may target the area to paint over competing graffiti signs. Repairing any damage as soon as it's discovered reduces this possibility
Many areas benefit from "neighborhood watch" organizations - which may be as simple as creating awareness among local businesses and homeowners. Organized neighborhood watch groups may take the time to organize "patrols" that walk or drive through areas as a way to deter individuals from destroying or harming private property
Mrs Sharon Bull presented a seminar at NAMTA Art Trade Fair in Indianapolis in 2010, where she reported on initiatives being undertaken in the Wollongong region in Australia
She indicated that graffiti on the traffic light signal boxes plagued the Road's and Traffic authority and the Wollongong Council. Together they initiated a scheme aimed at preventing graffiti and tagging. Funded by the two bodies they disseminated information calling for expressions of interest from artists to submit samples of their work
Artists donated their time and skill to paint the signal boxes. Prize monies through Cultural Services were offered for the judges' and the people's choices. "Through this method, the community 'buy in', not only to pride in their suburb but to art.
Over 300 boxes were painted providing ample scope for many artists to participate. They interacted with residents who became fiercely protective of the icon in their area. It has proved to be a very popular decision all round
So popular that, now the paint work is beginning to fade, it will be recommissioned having lasted some 5 years with a 95% rate of no graffiti or tagging. The organisers are fairly confident in assessing that some former graffiti artists found a positive outlet or canvas for their work. They too, are custodians
