Washington City Paper creates a record of the many murals that have been lost to new construction and shifting demographics in neighborhoods around Washington, D.C.
"Murals that depict the history and fabric of life in the District are being literally erased, and as public works of art like the one on the Ontario Theatre disappear, so are important expressions of neighborhood identities," according to an article by Justin Lynch.
An inventory of losses: "Since 2010, seven murals in the U Street NW area have been taken down or blocked from view by new construction. Two were blocked from view by apartments or buildings next door, two were removed when the building was torn down, and three have been removed at building owner(s) requests."
The article includes specific information about the backstory of some of the murals that have been lost—many of which have backstories about police brutality or the systematic marginalization of minority populations that could have informed an understanding of contemporary experiences, had they survived. Added to the indignity of a mural depicting jazz great Duke Ellington, since 2011 "a faded advertisement has taken its place," asking passersby to "Drink Coca-Cola."
FULL STORY: D.C.’s Historic Murals Are Disappearing
Street Artist Shepard Fairey Tackles Detroit
After billionaire landlord Dan Gilbert commissioned a mural, less-legal works in Fairey's style began showing up around the city. Detroit's case against the artist brings gentrification's ironies into focus.
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Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Restoring Northern India’s Himalayan ‘Water Temples’
Thousands of centuries-old buildings protect the region’s natural springs and serve as community wells and gathering places.
Milwaukee to Double Bike Share Stations
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DC Extends Application Window for Outdoor Dining Permits
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