Good question—law, as a stern judge, rarely nods at mischief as a bona fide artistic tool. The First Amendment can offer a shield, but courts weigh intent and effect; mischief usually falls under unlawful conduct, not protected expression. Unless the artist can show the mischief is integral to the creative message and doesn’t incite harm, the courts will likely refuse to recognize it. In short, mischief is a slippery slope for artistic legitimacy.