<![CDATA[The phenomenon of graffiti art among university students in Makassar reflects a form of resistance to campus policies perceived as restricting freedom of expression. Graffiti has become an important medium through which students convey social criticism and articulate their aspirations, particularly when formal channels of dialogue are considered inadequate. This study therefore aims to analyze the motivations, meanings, and functions of graffiti as a form of everyday resistance within the framework of James C. Scott’s theory. This research employed a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through observation and in-depth interviews. The informants consisted of six students from three major universities in Makassar. The data were analyzed to identify emerging themes related to graffiti as a form of expression and resistance. The findings show that graffiti functions as a means of symbolic communication that enables students to express dissatisfaction with campus policies. Students’ motivations for creating graffiti vary, ranging from the need to articulate personal concerns to the desire to represent collective voices. Solidarity among graffiti artists is also evident in the production process, as they support one another and collaborate in creating their works. Despite the risk of sanctions imposed by university authorities, graffiti remains a pragmatic and adaptive form of resistance, creating space for dialogue and protest that is not adequately represented in formal forums.]]>
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