ГРАФФИТИ ДҮРСЛЭЛ ДЭХ “ХЭРЦГИЙ ОПТИМИЗМ”

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22353/soc.2025.19.19

Keywords:

graffiti, positive concept, affect theory, cruel optimism, public space

Abstract

Abstract: It has been over fifty years since graffiti was officially recognized as a form of art. During this time, graffiti has evolved, transitioning from the streets to galleries and exhibition spaces. Since 1990, when hip- hop music was introduced to Mongolia, graffiti art has captivated and inspired the youth. Today, the graffiti created by young artists presents a diverse range of themes and styles. In particular, graffiti that expresses neoliberal ideas—such as personal development, optimism, self-love, and self-help—has become prominent in high-traffic areas of the city center. Messages like "Society will change for the better," "We are strong enough to overcome the challenges we face," and "Life is beautiful" are commonly seen. In this article, we will explore how these positive, life-affirming graffiti texts embody the concept of "brutal optimism" as articulated in affect theory.

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Published

2025-08-01

Issue

Section

Subfield sociology