Is Graffiti making a comeback? ...Graffiti is making a comeback!

By the early 2000s, graffiti had gained mainstream visibility. Projects like the video game Getting Up helped push it into the spotlight, and a flood of new writers appeared. But with that came a sense of trendiness — as if people were joining in for the novelty rather than the culture. Soon after, graffiti seemed to fade, overshadowed by the rise of street art. Many long-time writers stepped away, and the scene quieted.

That’s why today feels so different. In Madrid, graffiti is returning with new strength. The streets are alive again with fresh names, bold styles, and above all, young writers eager to challenge the status quo.

The energy of this new generation was captured beautifully at the opening of Ivigraphy’s photo exhibition, No Problem. Only Photos. While not directly about graffiti, the show carried its spirit — tunnels, subway lines, masked groups exploring spaces off-limits to most. The atmosphere of the opening mirrored the work itself: cans rattling in the crowd, stickers appearing on walls, and a palpable buzz of excitement.

Inside, the curated selection of backlit photographs offered an intimate glimpse into Madrid’s underground culture. The event drew a large crowd, mostly young, reminding those of us in our 30s just how powerfully the movement continues to inspire.

Speaking briefly with the photographer confirmed what the night already showed: graffiti is not fading, it is evolving. The next wave of writers is here, and they are reshaping the culture with energy, humility, and creativity.

The kids are more than “alright.” They’re building graffiti’s next chapter.