Working to keep local art in the Arts District
The subjects of parking meters in the Arts District and keeping artists in the Arts District have been hot topics. No one can deny that.
Unfortunately we are a victim of our own success. As we create more unique venues we attract more outside promoters who want to bring their brand and change the landscape. It's exhausting for those who have put their heart, soul and bank accounts into their businesses. It's disheartening to artists who can't afford the rising rents. But that doesn't mean the we are throwing in the towel. Projects continue as collectively many groups work to solve these woes created by our success. Can we maintain our home grown gritty feeling and still continue to attract our customers? Will we eventually gentrify into the next Wynwood? Who knows.
Here is an article highlighting one of the projects many groups worked together to pay local artists to help keep art in the Arts District. This project, initiated by then president of the 18b Derek Stonebarger and Parking Manager Brandy Stanley. It continues today and inspires other cities to beautiful their urban spaces with local, maintainable art. Parking meter wraps are not a final answer but they are a step in the direction to pay our artists and help maintain our community's unique vibe.
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