An Analysis of the Communication Derived From the Graffiti Layered on Public Service Vehicles (Psvs) in Kenya: a Receiver’s Perspective

Abstract

This study investigated the communication through the graffiti on Public Service Vehicles. The main objective was to determine the communication derived from the graffiti layered on Public Service Vehicles in Kenya from a receiver’s perspective by analysing messages as interpreted by commuters. The study adopted the Arts Criticism Theory and was conceptualised based on the Art Frames Conceptual Framework. This study incorporated observational research design. Qualitative approach was applied involving use of primary data collection strategy, combining both interviews and open-ended questionnaires. Narrative and thematic data analysis procedures were applied. The thematic analysis involved a semiotic and textual coding procedures of graffiti images and words which used meaning-making analyses to analyse the interpretations from the research participants. The study established that the communication included graffiti layered on matatus being considered appealing, their collective message determined as ‘modern’, ‘urban’ and ‘youthful’ made up of “sheng”/youthful lingo; further study deductions included appropriateness of certain messages classified as ‘chaotic’, ‘indecent’, ‘loud’, and ‘decent’. Pictorial graffiti, bright colours, and short-syllabic English words were ascertained as the main language used on the graffiti-layered Public Service Vehicles. The communication revolved around popular culture encompassing names of popular international musicians, movies, and prominent topics being used most of the times. Pictorial graffiti drawings were determined as elements of commercial and entertainment purposes. In addition, commuters used graffiti to identify and differentiate matatu routes according to residential areas in reference to Ongata Rongai, Ruai, and Komarock matatu routes. Recommendations include a further analysis of semantic discussions on the “sheng”/youthful lingo, urban pictorial graffiti, and the short-syllabic English words that are part of graffiti language.