Street artists have been taking part in a police-sponsored ‘vandalism competition’ in Mexico.

MEXICO CITY Graffiti has long been a symbol of rebellion and subversiveness but in recent years it has increasingly been seen as art - works by British artist Banksy have been bought by celebrities for hundreds of thousands of pounds.

And in Mexico, they have taken it a step further with hundreds of graffiti artists flocking to Mexico City’s famous Azteca Stadium to give it a makeover.

They have covered all the walls surrounding the stadium, gates and ticket offices with 300 paintings.

And not just anyone had the privilege of taking part in the vandalism - applicants had to send a sketch to qualify.

Artist Alejandro Aguirre said: “I think that these type of events make people change their stereotypes about graffiti painters.

“Most believe that we didn’t go to school or that we spend our time going out at night and painting government statues or someone’s home, but it’s more than that.”

The completed mural captures some of the most unforgettable characers in the history of the stadium - which played host to the 1968 Olympic Games.

And the artist who created the best graffiti got a cash prize of £750.

Police officers who organised the event said they hoped it would persuade youngsters to stop carrying out random acts of vandalism and concentrate on their artistic sides instead.

quote: Graff News

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