The Subconscious Art of Graffiti Removal

The Subconscious Art of Graffiti Removal is a short experimental documentary that examines the unexpected artistic merits of graffiti removal efforts. The film makes a dry, tongue-in-cheek argument that graffiti removal has become one of the more intriguing and important art movements of the 21st century.

Directed by Matt McCormick and narrated by Miranda July, The Subconscious Art of Graffiti Removal premiered at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival and went on to screen at festivals, museums, and art galleries around the world. It won many awards, received fantastic reviews, and was named in ‘Top 10 / Best of 2002’ lists in The Village Voice, Art Forum, and Filmmaker Magazine.

Originally shot on 16mm film, The Subconscious Art of Graffiti Removal was remastered to 4K digital video and re-released in 2022 thanks to a generous grant from The Sundance Preservation Fund. The remastered film then screened at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival as part of their 40th Anniversary program.

Director: Matt McCormick
Narrator: Miranda July
Written by: Avalon Kalin and Matt McCormick
Cyclist: Tasha Christensen
Graphics: Topher Sinkinson
Camera, editing, and sound design: Matt McCormick

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