I don’t write it, I just cite it.  Take a virtual tour of Selected American Wall Writing, from 2008-2010.

No Mo’ Ghost’n, New Orleans, Louisiana

My definite favorite is the warning found in New Orleans to Fred, angrily and clearly stated over repeated coverups of previous graffiti.  The stylized Skeletor (Fred?  The writer’s self-portrait?) adds and removes menace simultaneously.  Goofy or demented?

Dear Fred, Fuck Our Art And I’ll Make It Less Artistic, New Orleans, Louisiana

Killer Bitch, Sellwood, Oregon

Stitch Bitch, Portland, Oregon

I could not tell you why both “Bitch” references were scribbled on cars, both in Oregon.  Found on different days, different seasons, different handwriting.

Sorry Bout the Smell, Portland, Oregon

Sorry Bout the Smell, found in Portland, was especially relevant.  The entire block smelled like filthy fish leather.

Valley Inn, Anderson, California

The Valley Inn “monogramming,” while not technically graffiti, was mistaken for graffiti, after I grabbed hand towel after hand towel while reluctantly staying in a meth hotel on my way to San Francisco, wondering what crackhead would write on the towels…

I Heart Chili Cheese Tots, Medford, Oregon

Bloodhorse, Portland, Oregon

I love finding written words, opposed to inane tagging. I especially despise graff over public art, like the constant defacing of the banana mural in SE Portland.  (I had to include the Bloodhorse, however distasteful I find the artist’s choice of canvas.)

Taco, Portland, Oregon

Not, New York City, New York

Can you see the NOT spelled in the chainlink?  The rest of the message had been destroyed.  Art prank or schizophrenic?

Pansy Cobra, Portland, Oregon

The final photograph of Pansy Cobra, also has a soft spot in my heart.  Found on a pedestrian bridge, there were many others like it, clearly traced around shadows, using pastel puffy paint, and all bearing names that belied a lighthearted, whimsical humor.  It was a pleasure to discover them, laughing and running over the silly creations.

Pansy Cobra Inspector, Portland, Oregon

That’s what I love about writing on walls- the surprise and delight when a message makes it through.  Hi.  You wrote this.  And it’s nice to meet you.