I loved this interview with Adam Niklewicz, by Two Coats of Paint writer Joe Bun Keo, about Niklewicz’ latest mural on an out-of-the-way wall in Hartford, Connecticut.
I particularly liked the exchange between Joe Bun Keo and Nicklewicz regarding the relatively obscure location of the mural.
Keo notes that without billboard lights “[y]ou’d have to be a little more observant than usual…to notice [Niklewicz’s mural].” And Niklewicz responds that he doesn’t think it’s a problem – that, in fact, “public art is not an advertising campaign.”
Agreed. Public art, or art of any kind, is not advertising. And, unlike advertising, it’s worth spending the time to really see it – rather than quickly look and move on.
I hope some Slow Art Day readers get a chance to go look at some of this new public art in Connecticut. The state has spent $1 million to commission murals in multiple cities.
– Naomi Kuo, Slow Art Day intern; edited by Phil Terry
I’m a huge supporter of “takin’ it to the streets”. Public art is so important in promoting community awareness of the visual arts.
Art is not advertising, but some advertising is definitely art!
I love how the mural is subtle, but impacting once you realize it’s there.