Exploring the Vibrant Streetart Style

Joshua Valdovinos
Aug 18
4 min read

The Power of Modern Street Art in Illinois

When you walk through the streets of some city's in Illinois, you’ll notice walls that are more than just concrete or brick. Some of them are alive with bold colors, dynamic shapes, and powerful messages. That’s the impact of street art. For me, street art has never just been paint on a wall—it’s always been a language of culture, creativity, and community.

In this post, I want to share a closer look at modern street art—where it comes from, how it’s evolved, and the way it continues to transform spaces across our communities.

The Rise of Modern Street Art

Street art grew out of graffiti’s roots as a form of expression in the urban landscape—raw, unfiltered, and full of energy. Over time, it evolved into something more accessible to the public: murals, community projects, and commissioned pieces that add life to the places we pass every day.

Today, more and more businesses, communities, and even homeowners across Illinois are embracing street art as a way to bring personality and beauty into their spaces.

What makes modern street art so unique is its mix of tradition and innovation. From spray paint and freehand lettering to stencils and even digital tools, the medium has expanded without losing its connection to graffiti culture, to an extent of course. And every mural has the power to do something different—whether that’s honoring local history, celebrating diversity, or simply transforming a blank wall into something unforgettable.

How Street Art Transforms Spaces

A well-placed mural can completely change how a space feels. It’s not just decoration—it’s an experience. Here’s what street art can do when it’s created with intention:

Boost curb appeal for businesses and attract customers.
Give neighborhoods identity, helping people feel proud of where they live.
Warm up residential spaces with creativity and personality.
Serve as platforms for messages and culture, sparking conversations and connection.

For example, a café in Chicago might commission a mural that celebrates the city’s jazz and hip hop roots—something that both locals and visitors immediately connect with. Or a community center in Springfield could showcase neighborhood history and heroes, turning the walls into a visual storybook of local pride.

That’s the magic of street art—it transforms walls into meaningful landmarks.

Street Art and Gentrification

Street art has the power to brighten neighborhoods and bring people together, but it’s important to recognize that it can also be tied to gentrification. In some cases, developers or city planners use murals as a way to make an area look more attractive or “revitalized.” The art becomes a tool to market a neighborhood as trendy, which can drive up rents and property values.

The downside is that longtime residents may no longer be able to afford to stay in the very neighborhoods where these murals appear. What was meant to add beauty and identity can end up contributing to displacement if it isn’t done thoughtfully.

This doesn’t mean street art is inherently negative—it just means context matters. When artists, businesses, and communities work together, murals can highlight local culture, honor history, and strengthen pride. When street art is created for a community rather than with it, the risk of gentrification is higher.

Understanding this tension helps us see that street art isn’t just about paint—it’s about people, place, and power.

The First Rule of Street Art

People often ask, “What’s the first rule of street art?” To me, it all comes down to respect—respect for the space, the community, and the culture it comes from.

That means:

Always get permission before painting.
Create work that uplifts instead of defaces.
Make sure your art fits the cultural and social context.
Collaborate with the people who live and work around it.

When artists follow this mindset, street art becomes more than just a mural—it becomes a part of the community itself. It’s also how I approach every project under SNAGZ—with respect, care, and the goal of transforming spaces in a way that feels right for the people connected to them.

Bringing Your Vision to Life

If you’re considering a mural, here’s how the process usually works:

Define your goals – What do you want the mural to express?
Choose the right wall – High visibility and a good surface go a long way.
Work with the right artist – Find someone whose style matches your vision.
Plan the design together – Sketches and concepts make sure you’re aligned.
Prep the wall – Clean and prime for durability.
Watch it transform – See your vision come alive in real time.

Working with a professional ensures not just a stunning piece of art, but also that it lasts, respects the community, and truly reflects your vision.

Why Street Art Matters in Illinois

Illinois is rich in culture, history, and diversity—and street art is one of the most powerful ways to showcase that.

For businesses, murals are a marketing asset—eye-catching and memorable.
For communities, they build pride and connection.
For homeowners, they add warmth and individuality.

At SNAGZ ART, my mission is simple: take ordinary walls and transform them into extraordinary art pieces that inspire, connect, and uplift. Every project is a chance to tell a story while supporting the local creative economy.

Closing

Street art isn’t just about paint—it’s about creativity, respect, and connection. Whether you’re a business owner, community leader, or homeowner, there’s always room for a mural that reflects your story.

The walls around you are waiting. Let’s bring them to life.