Who are graffitists?

Many graffitists are members of an elite underground that echos a formalism and hierarchy that eerily resembles the society that raised them. Underground painting groups, known as "crews", vary in size, geographic reach, and prominence. They are elite in the sense that entry is based on merit, a strong portfolio, and the right contacts.

Once accepted into a crew, writers gain status, respect, and recognition among their peers. They can travel to virtually any city and be welcomed.

Should they wish to relocate and get a job, they'll have plenty of contacts in all fields, from janitorial to medicine. If it's just a weekend jaunt, they'll find a couch, a party, a wall, comradship, and probably several new colors to work with.

Graffitists refer to themselves as "writers" and to their work as "writing". Outside the circle, people think of them as artists, criminals, painters or vandals, depending on one's persuasion. Terms such as "tagging", "peacing", and "bombing" are also used to indicate various styles and approaches to graffiti.