The 2004 USPS sticker labels, particularly the Priority Mail “Label 228” stickers, have become iconic in graffiti culture. Here’s why they are so popular:
- Free and Accessible:
- USPS Label 228 stickers were readily available for free at post offices, making them an inexpensive option for graffiti artists to use as a canvas.
- Smooth Surface for Art:
- The smooth, adhesive surface of these stickers is perfect for drawing or writing with markers, paints, and other media.
- Ease of Application:
- Once completed, these stickers can be easily applied to a wide variety of surfaces, making them ideal for street art and tagging.
- Compact and Portable:
- The size of the labels allows artists to create and carry their artwork discreetly, which is a significant advantage in street art culture.
- Cultural Significance:
- Over time, USPS Label 228 has gained a cult following in the graffiti community. Artists began customizing them and turning them into mini art pieces, making them a unique subgenre of street art.
Today, these labels are not only a tool for graffiti but also a collectible and nostalgic symbol of creativity and resourcefulness within the urban art scene.