The influence of Latin language and culture on graffiti and street art is undeniable. From the stylized lettering and calligraphy of classic Roman inscriptions to the use of Latin phrases and slogans in contemporary urban art, Latin has been a source of inspiration and fascination for generations of street artists and graffiti writers. One of the earliest examples of Latin influence on graffiti and street art can be found in the work of the New York City subway graffiti writers of the 1970s and 80s. These artists, many of whom were of Puerto Rican or Dominican descent, were inspired by the ornate lettering and calligraphy of ancient Roman inscriptions, which they adapted and stylized into their own unique forms. The use of Latin phrases and slogans in graffiti and street art can also be traced back to this period. In the early 1980s, for example, the artist Keith Haring began incorporating Latin phrases into his work as a way of expressing his political and social views. One of his most famous works, the "Crack is Wack" mural in New York City, features the Latin phrase "Ignorantia juris non excusat" ("Ignorance of the law is no excuse") alongside his signature cartoon figures. The use of Latin in graffiti and street art has continued to evolve and expand in the years since. Today, Latin phrases and slogans can be found in a wide range of urban art, from political posters and murals to tags and throw-ups. One of the most common Latin phrases used in contemporary street art is "Carpe Diem" ("Seize the Day"), which has become something of a mantra for the urban art community. Other popular Latin phrases include "Veni, Vidi, Vici" ("I came, I saw, I conquered") and "Memento Mori" ("Remember that you will die"), both of which have been used as slogans by various graffiti and street art crews. In addition to Latin phrases and slogans, street artists and graffiti writers have also drawn inspiration from Latin literature and mythology. The artist Banksy, for example, has referenced the ancient Roman poet Ovid in several of his works, including the mural "Better Out Than In" in New York City, which features a quote from Ovid's "Metamorphoses". The use of Latin in graffiti and street art is not limited to the English-speaking world, either. In Brazil, for example, the artist Eduardo Kobra has created several large-scale murals featuring Latin quotes and phrases, including a mural of Mahatma Gandhi in São Paulo that features the phrase "Paz e amor" ("Peace and love") in Latin. Despite its popularity, the use of Latin in graffiti and street art is not without controversy. Some critics argue that the use of Latin phrases and slogans is little more than a gimmick, with little actual meaning or significance behind the words. Others argue that the use of Latin reinforces a Eurocentric view of history and culture, and that other languages and cultures should be given greater representation in urban art. Despite these criticisms, the influence of Latin language and culture on graffiti and street art remains a powerful and enduring one. Whether as a source of inspiration for calligraphic lettering, political slogans, or literary references, Latin continues to be a vital part of the urban art landscape.