Open up some space for graffiti and street art around the city
Let folks paint some of the empty (ugly) buildings with murals and art. Allow painting along the trax corridor. Build a graffiti free wall at all the skate parks. Have a contest and select artists to paint all of the utility boxes in the city. Why not encourage art and expression so when you take a walk there is something to see besides advertisements. You could have an art scavenger hunt with a map of free art spots. I would rather see tags all over than look at the ugly Neff floral building on 400 south again. Imagine that building covered with painted Flowers now that would be cool. Remember that graffiti is pictographs and petroglyph of the modern day humans want to express themselves in public and other humans want to see those expressions.
-
AdminNick Norris, Planning Manager, SLC Planning Division (Admin, Salt Lake City Planning Division) commented
This is great idea and really helps highlight local artists and adds to the character of an area. When the City was creating the master plan for North Temple, we heard from several high school students and college students about this idea, and put the idea in the plan as a way to add to the neighborhoods identity. Sounds like we need to do something similar on 400 south/University Blvd.
-
Anonymous commented
The city used to have a program called Global Artways which coordinated property owner approval and artists to paint murals. They were responsible for many of the murals along the north south light rail line within the City jurisdiction. Unfortunately, budget cuts eliminated the program several years ago. I have often advocated for a graffiti wall in Liberty Park to have a designated spot for artists to express tag art.
-
Jewely commented
I can agree with you. I think the city would like something more like what 337.org did to that house. Check out the website www.337.org. Lots of different artists, not just tag. All types of art...Although I think you have a point, I would like to answer the question. I just recently moved away from SLC, but I lived there previously for 6 years. I would say we need more trees in SLC. I would like the city to become more energy efficient. I like the idea of maybe "free tag" zones. Artists could tag up a certain area of the city for free. Maybe the buses even allow artists to color on public space. And the trax system should be expanded. I also think more recycling receptacles, glass recycling is VERY limited. I know art is cool, but somehow make art, and energy combine. Make people motived by art to help the environment. Peace
-
STEFAN VESCH commented
As someone who has lived in other states, I know what graffiti does to the community. Not everyone likes to walk outside and see tags everywhere. In my experience I have seen that city's with legal graffiti walls have more beautiful art, murals, and over all comfort knowing our kids(and adults) have somewhere safe to paint. It does not take from tax paying locals when you decide that the old warehouse that has been closed for 12 years and has nothing but broken windows is suitable to paint