MuralsDC Show of Graffiti-Style Murals, Plus Live Art Scupture

Toward the end of July we reported on an unusual project underway by MuralsDC to attempt to discourage graffiti by means of encouraging and underwriting public murals on graffiti-prone walls of private and public buildings. What made the project controversial was the idea of paying artists, mainly with tax dollars, to create art in the same graffiti-like style that used to be would otherwise be painted (for free) with actual grafitti.

Now the Department of Public Works (DPW) has announced an art show to display replicas of the murals created and installed during the program.  Here's the invitation to the public to attend this free event:

MuralsDC to Hold Art Exhibit Featuring Mural Artworks on Tuesday, September 6

This Tuesday MuralsDC will conclude its 2011 program with a unique art exhibit featuring replicas of each of the mostly graffiti-style murals installed during the program, as well as other works by MuralsDC artists. The free event will also feature live art by a local sculptor.

MuralsDC was launched in 2007 by Ward 1 Councilmember Jim Graham as a means to deter graffiti. The program, coordinated by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, the DC Department of Public Works, and Words, Beats and Life, positively engages District youth by teaching proper art techniques and respect for public property. Eight new murals have been installed this summer in Wards 1, 5, 6, 7 and 8.

What: Graffiti Mural Art Exhibit and Live Sculpture Performance
When: Tuesday, September 6, 2011, 6:00-9:00 pm
Where: 1300 H Street, NE (formerly the R.L. Christian Library)

You can also read about this project on the new website and blog: http://www.muralsdcproject.com.