ostensibly as a result of commonly-held notions about pichação being coupled with its visually displeasing appearance, it is viewed with disdain by the authorities and many graffiti artists. this stance is evidenced by the 'não pixe, grafite' (don't tag, graffiti) project put on by the city of rio in 1999 to showcase the styles of 35 local non-tag artists.

graffiti has become one of the most cost-effective ways to rehabilitate and beautify walls and other public spaces, while simultaneously fostering youth culture and participation in the creation of their environment.