PHOTOGRAPHER Dean Sewell divides Sydney's creative class into two categories: those who contribute, and the ''culture vultures'' who don't.

''A lot of people consider themselves really creative types but they've got to ask themselves: what do I actually do to contribute to the city?'' said Sewell, who describes Sydney's centre as a ''cultural Chernobyl''.

''We can't wait round to be delivered these opportunities, we need to make these opportunities for ourselves.''

But when that creative expression plays out in the city's streets and laneways - without the prior knowledge of councils or property owners - the question debated is a different one: what is legitimate street art, and when is it vandalism?