Where did street painting originate?

Originating in Italy and practiced by European artisans dating from the 16th century, street painting began as a means of communication most often associated with traditional religious celebrations and folk festivals. The artists, know as ‘madonnari’ or ‘Madonna painters’ because they reproduced icons of the Madonna, created works so well executed that they resembled complete paintings, hence the title ‘street painting’. These artists lived (and still live) from the coins thrown onto their work in appreciation for the image and the artist’s skill.