Welcome to BSA Images of the Week!

Similar to the icon of Ron English’s Temper Tot, this week’s lead image by street artist Kreau is a stencil of a maladjusted, rambunctious cowboy, a schoolyard bully perhaps; with no emotional maturity, only an insidious unchecked rage. Armchair psychologists might assess that this boy’s behavior stems from excessive criticism and harsh punishment from his father, leading to low self-esteem, anger, and rebellion. This lack of positive reinforcement and emotional neglect, where the father is physically present but emotionally absent, can result in feelings of abandonment and acting out for attention and validation.

Take it a step further, and you may overlay this assessment with America’s rebellion and ultimate declaration of independence from its paternal figure, King George III. That father, who famously battled mental illness and was known for his strained relationship with George IV, is described by some historians as being “heavily critical of his son”. This mirroring of historical relationships might be reflected in these petulant street art characters, perhaps subconsciously commenting on the role of the US on the world stage as voiced by international critics. A cowboy with a high-powered automatic in each hand. If street art reflects the society it is in, and we state unequivocally that it does, how does one interpret the stance and emotional/psychological standing of the various characters on today’s public walls? (see references at end)

Here is our weekly interview with the street, this week featuring El Hase, Carnivorous Flora, Kreau, AIC, Kalcium Fortified, Surf Video, Buke One, Win Slow, Necios, Angela Alonso, TOKE, Vnice World, Sensational, and DE$.

References:

1. Bowlby’s Attachment Theory
2. Baumrind’s Parenting Styles
3. Impact of Domestic Violence on Children
4. Emotional Neglect Impact
5. Effects of Harsh Parenting
6. Positive Reinforcement

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