Beyond the Streets exhibition in Paris questions street art's legitimacy

The exhibition 'Beyond the Streets' at the Grande Halle de la Villette in Paris showcases works by Shepard Fairey and Invader, curated by collector Roger Gastman. It explores street art's journey from illegal tagging to institutional recognition. Artists Hugo and Mathieu of the duo Tito/Mulk discuss their recent commissioned mural in the Sentier district, noting the shift from fear of painting walls to official invitations. Mathieu traces street art's origins to 1970s New York tagging, initially a political act of marking names. The duo uses pop culture-inspired, impertinent messages, believing art should be political as a public statement. Resident Monique, 78, appreciates the art's evolution. Gastman argues that institutionalization is not a problem but a realization of the American dream, as former vandals become art directors and entrepreneurs. Tito/Mulk work with brands while critiquing advertising's brain-softening effects, aiming to provoke thought. The exhibition runs in Paris in 2026.