Public art in Hollywood revitalizes city center

Public art creates an arts hub in Hollywood, Fla. as it nears its fifth anniversary.

Public art creates an arts hub in Hollywood, Fla. as it nears its fifth anniversary.

BY HELEN WOLT

The Downtown Hollywood Mural Project nears its fifth anniversary

The Downtown Hollywood Mural Project is nearing its fifth anniversary, and with its success the city center continues to prosper.

"People come down specifically to see the murals and they see the lovely downtown area. It adds credibility to downtown Hollywood as an arts center," said Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency project manager Jill C. Weisberg at a recent CRA board meeting.

Since its inception in August 2012, a total of 24 murals now add swaths of color to the central district. Two more are in the planning stages.

"This is a great attraction for downtown Hollywood because of the bulk and the quality of the murals," Weisberg said. Most of the artists are locally based; all are widely acclaimed.

Mural tours given during the city's monthly artwalk acquaint newcomers with the community, galleries and businesses.

"It's a nice introduction to downtown Hollywood and all that it has to offer," she said.

Mike Stocker

Crowds walk past the bandshell on Hollywood beach.

Crowds walk past the bandshell on Hollywood beach.

(Mike Stocker)

The larger-than-life visuals have become popular backdrops for folks who snap selfies with their cell phones. When the pictures are posted to social media sites the city benefits from the exposure.

Commissioner Peter Hernandez, said, "It's good to be known for something that is positive, particularly in a downtown."

"This is the largest contemporary art project in Broward County, and dare I say, the tri-county area," Weisberg said.

Miami's art district features Wynwood Walls, which is its only curated mural project. Its other works are piecemeal and not an organized part of the system.

Mayor Josh Levy said Hollywood's collection is a "standout in the tri-county area ... This really is one of the most special elements of downtown, bar none."

During the board meeting, City Commissioners asked about plans for additional public art features.

Executive director Jorge Camejo said the CRA has considered installing murals on the beach. But weather conditions and the saltwater breeze would deteriorate a painting.

"We'd be willing to fund a grant if it includes a glass or stone mosaic, something that's more durable for beach conditions. But part of the charm of the mural project downtown is that it's downtown," Camejo said. "If you spread it too much it may lose the charm and identity that we believe is so important to link it to downtown."