Creativity Versus Graffiti

Mrs Sharon Bull presented a seminar at NAMTA Art Trade Fair in Indianapolis in 2010, where she reported on initiatives being undertaken in the Wollongong region in Australia.

She indicated that graffiti on the traffic light signal boxes plagued the Road's and Traffic authority and the Wollongong Council. Together they initiated a scheme aimed at preventing graffiti and tagging. Funded by the two bodies they disseminated information calling for expressions of interest from artists to submit samples of their work. Artists donated their time and skill to paint the signal boxes. Prize monies through Cultural Services were offered for the judges' and the people's choices. "Through this method, the community 'buy in', not only to pride in their suburb but to art."

Over 300 boxes were painted providing ample scope for many artists to participate. They interacted with residents who became fiercely protective of the icon in their area. It has proved to be a very popular decision all round. So popular that, now the paint work is beginning to fade, it will be recommissioned having lasted some 5 years with a 95% rate of no graffiti or tagging. The organisers are fairly confident in assessing that some former graffiti artists found a positive outlet or canvas for their work. They too, are custodians.

Councils and residents prefer to see their money spent on positive outcomes rather than repairs. Bellambi was a suburb targeted for preventative measures as vandalism proved costly. A respected indigenous artist, Kevin Butler was invited to work with residents of the area, including children and youth, to paint 8, 2mx1m murals for the Bellambi Surf Club. The work was carried out at the local primary school. This was a stroke of genius because it involved children from as young as 5. Once the murals were completed and hung, they became a source of pride. It's not surprising that there has been a resurgence of art in that area.

It would seem that this concept could be embraced by many communities and thus provide a healthy outlet for youthful energies. Let us not stem the creative urge but rather garner it for positive outcomes. Perhaps that child, 'messing about with art,' will design the next series of postage stamps or a prize winning design for architecture. Think outside the square, take on the challenge and get your community on the map.