Dynamics of Youth Art Subculture Lexicons as Reflections of Evolution of Genres, Techniques, and Subcultural Practices

Abstract

This study explores the pathways and methods of lexical renewal within youth art subcultures (graffiti, digital art, furry art). The aim of the research is to demonstrate how lexical innovations reflect the development of subcultural ideas manifested in new genres, techniques, and creative actions, while also identifying the socio-cultural context that underpins these dynamic processes. The research material was selected from online platforms of subcultural communities and social media groups (2005–2025). It incorporates recordings of spontaneous speech from representatives of art subcultures from the authors’ archives, as well as published lexical resources. Employing methods of etymological and word formation analysis, alongside componential and contextual analysis techniques, the study reveals the motivations and means of lexical nomination, clarifies the semantic structure, and elucidates the axiological orientation of new units within the subcultural lexicon. These innovations are presented in relation to the thematic dominants of the subcultural lexicon. The trajectories of development for three art subcultures are illustrated, highlighting the socio-cultural factors that have shaped the specificity of their renewed genres and subcultural practices, which have received lexical representation. It is emphasized that lexical innovations are most prominently represented in new drawing techniques—traditional, digital, and mural — which have emerged due to advancements in the IT sector and the artist goods industry.