Governance, Identity and Place of Graffiti - Kerun Li

This book offers a comprehensive overview of graffiti culture in China, particularly through the example of graffiti in the Furong Tunnel at Xiamen University. It explores the complex relationship between graffiti as an art form and social behavior, focusing on its definition, legality, public space conflicts, sense of place, and interactions under management systems. Firstly, the book discusses the varying definitions of graffiti in Western and Chinese contexts. Using the Furong Tunnel graffiti as a case study, it examines the line between artistic expression and vandalism, highlighting issues of legality, sense of place, and publicness. Secondly, it delves into the practice of graffiti in public spaces, particularly within Xiamen University. The graffiti in the Furong Tunnel has sparked debates about the conflict between educational and social functions, altering the tunnel's spatial form and function. It has become a focal point for conflicts between tourists and students, reflecting the complexity of campus space. The book also explores how graffiti constructs a sense of place and its associated social conflicts. By tracing the historical development of tunnel graffiti, it shows how graffiti becomes a collective memory and cultural symbol, serving as a medium for students to express emotions and construct local identities. Furthermore, the book addresses the legality of graffiti and the negotiation among actors under management systems. Although not legally considered a tourism resource, the university's stance is ambiguous, balancing strict regulations with using graffiti for publicity. Specific incidents of vandalism highlight conflicts between graffiti culture and campus management, discussing issues of protection and restoration. Lastly, the book examines ownership and management of graffiti. Conflicts over preservation and usage rights between students and tourists show the university's role as a coordinator. It emphasizes graffiti's importance in campus culture and as a promotional tool, while also noting that management measures might limit free expression, leading to homogenization concerns. Using multiple research methods, this book explores the social and political implications of graffiti, emphasizing the interactions and conflicts among stakeholders. It reveals the significance of graffiti in Chinese society and offers solutions to issues concerning graffiti culture in contemporary China.