VOICE/IDEA: The Power of Murals
Art has been around for as long as humans. From the very beginning with cave paintings to figurative scenes to street art, it has been used as an expression of experiences, perspectives, and stories. The importance of its presence cannot be understated.
Within this broad spectrum of ‘art’ are murals. From a long history rooted in politics and solidarity, murals often act as a voice of the people, displaying unique art pieces on large scales that create conversation and sometimes even help create social change.
HISTORY OF MURAL(ISM) & STREET ART
The word mural stems from the Latin word ‘murus’ meaning ‘wall’; creating the definition that a mural is any piece of artwork painted or applied directly onto a wall, ceiling or other larger permanent surfaces, flat, concave or convex. However, with this definition, cave paintings or the Sistine Chapel ceiling may not be the first things that come to mind when talking about murals. This is because muralism became much more popular during the 1920’s, specifically after the Mexican revolution.
MEXICAN MURALIST MOVEMENT
Originally used as a way to convey visual messages to an illiterate population, murals during this time presented the opportunity to create inclusiveness and cohesiveness in communities. In the Mexican Muralist movement, visual messages often promoted pride in cultural identity, political views, and historical importance (see Diego Rivera). It was because of this shift in expression that murals became a popular method of communication and resistance.
CHICANO ART MOVEMENT
Following the Mexican Muralist movement was the Chicano Art movement in the 1960’s, created by Americans of Mexican descent. The movement emphasized otherwise ‘invisible’ histories and people, seeking social justice and equality as well as to reclaim and educate others of their rich heritage. Building onto the idea of using public art as a method of conversation and protest, pieces were created with the involvement of community members by discussing and utilizing their history, aspirations, and struggles.
BERLIN WALL & EAST SIDE GALLERY
One of the most popular demonstrations of street art is the Berlin Wall. Constructed in 1961, the wall separated East Berlin and West Berlin until 1989 as a result of political clashes after the post-WWII partitioning of Berlin, Germany. As a 14-ft tall white wall, it acted as a canvas to many in West Berlin and a reminder of restriction for those in East Berlin. In West Berlin, artists expressed their opinions of freedom, political issues, and social justice, creating a colourful gallery of resistance and commentary lasting for miles.
After reunification in 1990, artists around the world were invited to paint on the East side’s bare walls, creating the East Side Gallery. What had previously been a drastic difference in culture and society is now one of the world’s largest open-air galleries. 1.3 kilometers long, the gallery brought 118 artists from 21 countries together to create 106 unique pieces celebrating peace and freedom.
CURRENT DAY
In the 1970’s and 80’s, the terms ‘street art’ and ‘graffiti’ blossomed as a result of young people responding to socio-political issues by creating art in public places (similar to the examples above). Slowly, the process of creation through destruction became more popular with different experimental methods such as stenciling, spray painting, chisels, and drills. Still a commentary on socio-political issues, artists around the world caught the attention of many with unique and thought-provoking pieces.
Artists like Banksy, BLU, and Vhils use the streets as their canvas, creating commentary and awareness out of ordinary sights. The nature of a mural leaves the interpretation up to the viewer, melding art, politics, and perspectives.
Over time, murals have evolved to be an expression of beliefs and experiences, lending themselves to be a face for activism, social justice, and freedom that is accessible to all.
CREATE YOUR OWN
If the idea of blending narratives with street art interests you, consider creating your own mural project at your school or in your community! The act of changing a space can be very empowering and doing it together is even better!
Perhaps you have a topic in mind already but if not, explore ideas and themes for your project through a participatory approach – understanding other’s experiences, perspectives, and issues that are important to them. As discussed with murals around the world, using current events, culture and heritage or the environment can all be a great source of inspiration.
TIPS TO GET YOU STARTED
- Brainstorm a theme or idea
- Pull from what you’re passionate about, a current issue or a theme like gender equality, climate change, or others
- Gather your team
- Invite classmates, educators or community members to help with the creation of your masterpiece
- Secure a place for your mural with your school administration or community leaders
- Look for blank walls that could use some art and conversation (Or maybe a ceiling? Hello, Michelangelo?)
- If you’re having trouble finding a permanent location, play around with the idea of creating a moveable piece
- Create a budget and timeline for your project
- Consider the cost of supplies and any time of professionals whose expertise you may require
- Hosting a fundraiser can help if you’re in need of funds
RESOURCES
It’s Time to Lead a Mural Project – The Art of Education
Thrive Collective – School Murals
Start with a Book – Make a Mural Toolkit
Written by: Keana Rellinger
Posted in: Action Project Ideas, Voice
Great post 😁