The issue of whether graffiti as an art form has a positive effect on US property values is likely to be challenged in a new York federal court . A lawsuit will see a group of muralists argue their work on property owner Gerald Wolkoff 's 5Pointz building in Long Island City helped raise the district 's profile , enabling him to profit from redevelopment after he demolished the site in 2013 . They also argue it was of such importance that they should have been given the opportunity to protect the paintings before the building was pulled down without " reasonable and proper notice " .
The issue of whether graffiti as an art form has a positive effect on US property values is set to be discussed in a New York federal court. A lawsuit will see a group of muralists argue their work on property owner Gerald Wolkoff's 5Pointz building in Long Island City helped elevate the district's profile, enabling him to profit from redevelopment after he demolished the site in 2013. They also claim it was of such importance that they should have been given the chance to protect the paintings before the building was pulled down without "permission and proper notice".