Graffiti art also originated marginally in Brazil, as “tags” on the walls in slums. From there it has developed into an artistic expression that far exceeds the original "tags". Probably because of its roots, recognition came rather late. We can speak of a form of cultural and economic apartheid that stood in the way of the “Urban Art scene” and the established art world. Graffiti art needed time to convince the mainstream art elite of its innovative expressiveness. Compared to other parts of Brazil, this took quite a long time in Rio and this art form only came to a significant development at the end of the last millennium.

Nowadays, there are several art projects for young people organized by the government and even the law has been changed in such a way that “tagging” on walls is judged differently from graffiti art, an important step in recognizing the importance of art in all its guises.

One of the most important pioneers in this field is the internationally recognized artist Smael. His colorful works go beyond the streets and his audience is no longer just young people. The abstraction of his figures shows that Urban Art can not only be a current reflection of a fantasy, but also of our society.