What is paste-up street art?

Paste-up street art, also known as wheatpaste or poster art, is a form of street art that involves adhering paper or printed images onto public surfaces using a mixture of wheatpaste or other types of adhesive. It is a popular technique used by artists to quickly and easily display their artwork in public spaces.

The process typically involves creating or printing out artwork on paper or other thin materials. Artists often use a mix of hand-drawn or digitally designed imagery, photographs, and text to convey their message or create visually engaging pieces. Once the artwork is prepared, it is then affixed to walls, street poles, fences, or other suitable surfaces using wheatpaste, which is a mixture of flour and water that acts as an adhesive.

The term "paste-up" refers to the act of pasting the artwork onto the surface. This technique allows artists to display their work in public spaces without requiring permission or traditional art installation methods. Paste-up street art can be found in urban areas, alleys, abandoned buildings, and other locations that allow for public visibility.

One of the advantages of paste-up street art is its temporary nature. While it can last for varying durations depending on the weather and location, it is more ephemeral compared to other forms of street art such as murals. The temporary nature of paste-up art allows for a constant rotation of new artwork in public spaces, keeping the urban environment dynamic and ever-changing.

Paste-up street art can encompass a wide range of styles and subject matter, from political and social commentary to purely aesthetic and decorative pieces. It provides a platform for artists to express themselves, engage with the community, and transform public spaces into open-air galleries.