Symbolism and Identity in Urban Street Art as Visual Narratives in Southeast Asian Cities

Abstract

Urban street art has become a significant visual medium reflecting identity, resistance, and cultural memory within Southeast Asian cities. This study explores how street art in urban environments such as Jakarta, Bangkok, and Manila serves as a visual narrative, embedding local symbolism and identity expression into public space. The objective is to analyze how visual elements in street art communicate social, cultural, and political messages. A qualitative method is employed, utilizing visual semiotics and ethnographic observation to examine selected murals and graffiti. The findings reveal that recurring motifs, such as traditional symbols, mythological figures, and vernacular language, function as tools of cultural assertion and urban storytelling. These visual narratives not only document community histories but also challenge dominant urban narratives, reclaiming marginalized voices. The study highlights the role of street artists as agents of social commentary and urban transformation. Implications suggest that recognizing street art as a form of visual narrative contributes to a broader understanding of cultural identity construction in urban Southeast Asia.