World Square, a premier shopping center located in Sydney, Australia, recently partnered with creative hot shop VANDAL to commission a sustainable art sculpture. The sculpture was developed by artist Gabrielle Filtz and is titled “Weaving Thru The World”.

“The recycled materials used in the artwork consist of discarded fabrics, ribbons, and rope from old City of Sydney street banners, festivals, and flags – including Mardi Gras festivals. Collected from Reverse Garbage in Marrickville, I loved using discarded materials to create public art, rather than seeing it end up in a landfill.” Says artist Gabrielle Filtz from VANDAL.

World Square Marketing Manager, Marina Zarnitsyna says “Bold, bright, and unique artworks have overtaken the entrances and laneways at World Square, enticing passers-by into the precinct to explore the dynamic mix of over 100 food, fashion, lifestyle, entertainment, and essential service stores. The Spanish Stairs at George Street is one of the highlights of this bold and colorful project.”

Gabrielle Filtz wanted to not only create an oversized public art sculpture but also ensure the artwork could be created in a sustainable fashion. “I’m very proud of the sustainable use of recycled materials,” says Filtz. “I kept asking myself how the artwork can show Sydney, and the wider world, that we are creating a beautiful statement piece and also be mindful of the delicate ecosystem on this beautiful planet of ours.”

After multiple trips to Reverse Garbage in Marrickville, she was sure she had a colorful palette of recycled, reusable mediums to work with.

Filtz used Old City of Sydney street banners, ribbons, rope, and fabrics to create her masterpiece. By purchasing recycled materials from Reverse Garbage, she supported their recycling contributions and also gave life to Sydney’s cultural heritage for art lovers and city-goers to enjoy!

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Some artists focused on the eerie silence left behind by the intense lockdowns from March to June, while others tried to find ways to spread hope, motivation, and courage even in this bleak time. Unsurprisingly, many graffiti and street artists have incorporated COVID-19 themes into their work this past year.

As the virus is under some control, and lockdowns are gradually being lifted across the world, people have started stepping outside with precautionary measures. Muralists are taking this as an opportunity to utilize public places to showcase art and spread awareness. Toilet papers, face masks, and disinfectants are some of the common subjects of street artists. However, others are emphasizing boosting immunity, enhancing will power, and staying fit.

Here, we share with you some of the most creative COVID-19 themed art adorning cities all over the world. These contributions are popping up with each passing day as artists are becoming more and more involved. Some well-known murals related to COVID-19 are:

The gratitude, dedication, and support provided by healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 crisis are the most common subjects in street art. One graffiti artist in London did a commendable job highlighting the contribution of doctors during the pandemic. In the mural picturized above, the artists paid homage to junior doctors.

He specifically highlighted the contributions of resident doctors because they are constantly putting their lives at risk, work more, and are paid less in comparison to the senior physicians. However, they are still working day and night with full enthusiasm. An artwork specially dedicated to the resident staff boosts their morale and show them that their contributions are appreciated.

At a time when street artists were focusing on common pandemic related themes, Italian street artist Laika took a different step and focused on the restaurant staff. Since eateries are now opening, Laika focused on a Chinese restaurant owner, Sonia, wearing a fully covered gown along with a face mask.

Sonia’s message in Italian translates to “There’s an epidemic of ignorance going around… we must protect ourselves!”The artist tried to give a message that though the restaurants are opening, precautionary measures are still important. People working at the restaurant are equally affected by the pandemic. Thus, they are back to work but at risk and following new operating procedures.

Another great example is seen in Amsterdam, where the famous street artist FAKE painted a nurse with a Superman logo, titled Super Nurse! The nurse is shown wearing a mask, which is a typical representation of COVID-19. What is unusual is that she has the “S” logo of Superman on the front of the nurse’s uniform, reminding everyone that nurses, along with other frontline workers, are the true superheroes. 

The idea is to highlight the exceptional role played by the nursing staff in this condition of turmoil. These nurses are putting their life in danger serving the COVID-19 patients. Not just in the critical care unit, they are also doing the testing. The artwork received great recognition and appreciation globally, and it was selected as a digital art installation in London.

In Germany, another street artist, Uzey, took up his paints to encourage people to stay strong despite the hardships the pandemic has brought. The art shows a fully covered person carrying a pack of COVID-19 germs in his hand. The picture reveals that no matter how covered a person is, the virus is everywhere. Thus, maintaining social distance and practicing isolation is the only safe solution. Various colors used in the artwork are intended to bring some light to the colorless life these days. This street art gives a friendly message to humanity and tries to boost morale.

In Indonesia, a campaign related to COVID-19 murals started in August 2020. This street art in Jakarta quickly gained popularity as it depicts the message very clearly and powerfully. It highlights many things: firstly, it shows that the man is carrying a shield, which is somewhat similar to a mask, and therefore subconsciously, you are made to think that wearing a mask is the best defense against the virus.

Secondly, it brings a message of hope for the masses – it gives strength to the affected individuals for regaining their health. People who are still in a state of fear can also get some motivation from the thought-provoking art. It shows that we can fight and overcome any germ or virus, only if we have the will and if we take the right measures.

Some fans even interpreted the painting with respect to organizations that stood firm to safeguard society. Most notably, healthcare and human service organizations, but also small businesses and individuals initiated small efforts to help their communities from the financial and emotional effects of the pandemic.

For instance, many individuals started campaigns to buy from small businesses in their community to keep them from going out of business. Similarly, small businesses, like cleaning companies, started offering door-to-door and contact-less services for the safety of their clients.

Another street artist drew this painting of a nurse who is covered from head to toe in a gown, gloves, and face mask. She is portrayed as an angel of love with colorful wings. The artist showed how the nurse is ready to go for work. Such contributions for supporting the doctors, nurses, testing professionals, and the janitorial staff seems valuable in this crucial time. These people are the real heroes who are diligently performing their duties in high-risk areas.

Conclusion

In short, COVID-19 murals are brightening the streets across the globe. From humorous and playful styles to more serious and sympathetic themes, street artists have done an excellent job highlighting the issue. From highlighting the importance of healthcare workers to aiming at reviving the mood of infected individuals, each has highlighted the importance of working through the pandemic together.

Along with the artists mentioned here, tons of other artists like Pebsy, Pyritt, AFK, Jesus Cruz, and many others have made valuable contributions. They’ve expressed a collective feeling of fear, rage, and frustration developed during the lockdowns and isolations. And they have also helped us in regaining lost hope.

Thinking out of the box and taking out time in stenciling and painting the walls is a commendable step in uniting the society in this unprecedented time. Was one your favorite?

Author Bio:
Nouman provides ghostwriting and copywriting services. His educational background in the technical field and business studies helps him in tackling topics ranging from career and business productivity to web development and digital marketing. He occasionally writes articles for carpet cleaning. 

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The group of world-renowned artists includes Aliyah Sidge, Beau Stanton, Buff Monster, David Flores, Greg Mike, Hueman, Kayla Mahaffey, Kai, Mojo, Peter Tunney, Reggie “RAL86” Le Flore, Shepard Fairey, and Queen Andrea. These artists will create digital murals that will be showcased in locations across the US including, Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks United Center, Portland Trail Blazers Moda Center, Sacramento Kings Golden 1 Center, Los Angeles Football Club Band of California Stadium, Miami Heat American Airlines Arena, Milwaukee Bucks Fiserv Forum, Washington Wizards Capital One Arena, Washington Nationals Park, Cleveland Cavaliers Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, San Francisco Giants Oracle Park, Oakland A’s Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, and Times Square in New York City.

Founder of Goldman Global Arts, Jessica Goldman Srebnick, believes “art has the power to unite. It has the power to amplify messages of hope and encourage dialogue. Art has the power to create change. We are proud to work with When We All Vote to bring together 13 American Artists to amplify the importance of every vote and broadcast that message on billboards across the country while also sharing these original works in a vibrant social media campaign. It is a project I am exceedingly proud of. No matter your party, we must do our part to protect democracy, we must all VOTE.”

The murals launched on Monday, October 5th, 2020 featuring the city’s local artist and a rotating exhibit of each digital piece. The focus is to encourage civic engagement and voting among Americans. Each artist was selected for their talent and contribution to art around the world.

Shepard Fairey

“This vote ballot box is a visual call to action that your vote counts. It’s there at the ballot box so when we all vote, democracy really does work!”

Queen Andrea

“The style of my art piece harkens back to retro American 1970’s sassy script lettering that has character and flare. I combined this classic and bold script with colorful 3D block letters to complete the phrase “Vote Loud Vote Proud!”, which is further amplified by bands of gradation color that outline the words. The bold color palette is exciting, fun, and engaging. Voting is so important during any and every election, so I chose a classic retro style to honor the longevity of sustained democracy through voting.”

David Flores

“This piece serves as a reminder of the many individuals that are impacted by our right to vote and how it should not be taken lightly. For me, I often think about my ancestors and the various Black Americans that fought for our own justice and equality, and how this same energy can be utilized for the rights of others—in my current and surrounding communities and for those that will come after.”

Greg Mike

“My WWAV piece is a representation of a vast community of characters all coming together collectively to VOTE. The artwork was inspired by a piece I created in 2014 titled “PEACE OF MIND”, which featured a group of characters coming together to form a Peace Symbol in a similar fashion. I hope it’ll catch some eyes and tell a story of how it’s our duty to hit the polls and VOTE LOUD!”

Mojo

“‘Up 2 Us’ is an exhibition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top” speech. As we stand on the shoulders of our American ancestors who declared their humanity with the right to vote, it’s our duty to use our voices and ballots to unite and walk side by side into our Peace Filled Promise Land.”

Buff Monster

“Every election year, the stakes seem to get higher and higher. This election comes at such a stressful and trying time for so many, and will dramatically affect how we recover, collectively. Earlier this year, I donated art for some PSA posters that went up around NYC; this project allows me to continue to use my work to inspire and motivate.”

Kai

“I thought using the iconic Statue of Liberty was important because for immigrants it has always been such a powerful symbol of the American Dream and the chance to have a fair and fresh new start. Many immigrants came from poverty and unfair circumstances and the statue symbolize freedom and hope. Go vote and don’t stop pursuing your American Dream.”

Reggie “RAL86” LeFlore

“I see this project as an opportunity to remind everyone on how the incredibly simple act of voting can impact so much more than who we elect for the Oval Office – especially with regards to the many marginalized communities in America that are affected by it.”

Peter Tunney

“Words do matter! Language remains our most powerful tool and form of communication. I like to sit and with each one of these 4 words. Each word is densely packed with meaning—so I like to use words—it’s what I do!”

Beau Stanton

“If we can make some art to encourage a more representative outcome in this election, I am 100% into that. By voting, we are keeping the torch lit and illuminating our ability to imagine progress. Let’s make it happen.”

Heuman

“My design is of many hands holding ballots, their arms draped in green robes that allude to the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of our free country. Textiles play a big part in my work, and this image illustrates that voting is the fabric of our democracy.”

Aliyah Sidge

“So many people have fought for our right to vote. My artwork represents past and present. I hope that it gives people a sense of pride and honor when they view it.”

Kayla Mahaffey

“While making this piece, I wanted to highlight the importance of the youth growing up and eventually being able to vote. They will grow up and be the voices of the next generation and we should all make sure they see this opportunity in a positive light of bettering their future.”

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The popularity of graffiti has even resulted in some street artists being recognized by art institutions, as well as finding success showcasing their work in galleries and in more unconventional locations. Pieces by present-day street art mavens such as KAWS and Banksy have become increasingly in demand, and their success has inspired new artists to consider taking this path. It’s clear to see that graffiti and street art are here to stay and have found their place in today’s culture. Here’s a look at the rise of street art and the future of this vibrant art form.

Street Art Takes Root in NYC

The 80s were an iconic time for unconventional and subversive art in New York City, and creativity was showcased everywhere, from canvases to walls, public spaces and even human bodies. During this decade, tattoo artists Thom De Vita, Brooklyn Blackie, and Tony D’Annessa operated underground tattoo parlors in the city, even after officials banned tattooing. Customers would emerge from their shops sporting various intricate patterns on their body and it inspired other tattoo artists to open secret shops of their own.

Meanwhile, the NYC graffiti scene was also in full bloom, as artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring started using public places all over the city to showcase their works. Eventually, the art world began to take notice of their genius. Basquiat’s works were showcased at Annina Nosei’s gallery in Soho, while Haring made sure that the public could easily get their hands on his art by selling shirts and other items featuring his work. Some of haring’s art can be found today at New York’s MOMA and Whitney Museums, while Basquiat’s paintings can be viewed at the Soho Contemporary Art Gallery. And, of course, their works are frequently on display in museum collections around the world.

Street Art as Collectibles 

Today, pieces made by famous street artists have become status symbols among collectors. Banksy’s works are known to fetch millions and are highly sought after by the elite. Just remember when Banksy’s “Girl and Balloon” image made waves and in 2018 when it self-destructed after just being sold for over $1.2 million at Sotheby’s. Meanwhile, Brian Donnelly, known in the art world as KAWS, started out as a graffiti artist in NYC and now has ongoing licensing collaborations with Uniqlo, Dior Homme, and Bounty Hunter. With the latter, Donnelly launched a line of toys that are highly collectible and finding homes with celebrities such as RM and J-Hope of BTS, Pharrell Williams, and Justin Bieber among many.

In today’s art culture, urban art is a new genre developing influenced by elements and inspirations of both graffiti and street art into works more suitable for the home and other interiors. As the new genre of street art becomes more accessible to everyone, it is expected that more street artists will be making their work available for public consumption through collaborations with galleries, museums, and brands that will showcase their work. Though there might be debates about whether street and urban art will have the same impact on a $50 t-shirt as it does on a wall in NYC, it’s evident that it’s an effective way to introduce art to a younger audience as it challenges gatekeeping within the art world. Whether it’s on a brick wall in Brooklyn or displayed at the best museums in the world, street art and it’s new sick-kick urban art, will live on and will remain an important part of today’s art scene.

About the Author: Karoline Gore is a freelance writer, art enthusiast and self-confessed tattoo junkie. When she’s not writing about her favorite tattoo designs, she loves exploring the countryside in her native Maine with her dogs Ralph and Bella.  

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Q: Introduce yourself – who are you and what do you do?

A: My name is Danijela Spitzer, but I present myself as Dani Ropi. I am a photographer in love. My work is based on photography, but I take pictures in sketch form. My specialty is technology, so I apply my images in different programs and paint them digitally. I believe in the future we will stop using our hands, therefore I spend my free time exploring different programs. After I print my work, I caption it with a quote I believe represents each particular piece of art, or I paint some parts of the picture. Usually, it is mixed media, but I love to refer to myself as an art journalist. Every piece of mine has a long story behind the colors I use and the quotes I apply to each image.

Q: What is your background?

A: I was born in Croatia on the Island of Pag. At the age of six, I took my father’s suitcase, packed it with my favorite outfits and snacks, and wrote a letter to my parents saying I was unhappy and was leaving to go on a mission to find my happiness. I was not an easy child. I was raised on a small island where I felt like I was suffocating. There was no room to explore or be creative. My country was at war, I was confused, angry, and aggressive towards everyone. I spent my time on the streets. My twenties were spent living all over Europe – Parma, Italy, Bilbao, Spain, and London, UK. I studied in London but never finished college even though I attended three different schools. College never fit with me, the big hooligan inside of me always had a problem following the system. I learn better by educating myself, listening to my heart, and traveling. 

Q: How do you work?

A: I work in the streets. The street is my beginning and end, filled with people, energy, and action, all of which are variables that inspire me to work. 

Q: What art do you most identify with?

A: I identify most with modern and contemporary art. I like to mix old with new. 

Q: What has been your favorite experience so far as an artist?

A: Leaving everything behind, coming to America, and starting from scratch in New York City. I came here three years ago, when my art did not even exist yet. In just three years I grew, created, learned, and transformed myself into a completely different person, a person I always dreamed about. That is why most of my work is dedicated to my beautiful New York City. Leaving was the hardest thing I have ever done but I didn’t give up, even though I wanted to.

Q: Who inspires you?

A: I am not inspired by one person, but rather streets, cities, traveling, breaking the rules, politics, and plain old good conversation. It depends on what mindset I am in, my art is very personal and everything comes from the emotions I am feeling during that time. That is why I call myself a photographer in love. 

Q: What is the best advice you have received?

A: NEVER GIVE UP.

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: I am lucky to say that work doesn’t feel like work. I go from a state of euphoria to complete stillness. I like to view this as regeneration, like a Phoenix. I can stay at home for months, enjoy myself, and delve into my emotions simply through cleaning or healing my inner circle. This gives me the energy to go back on the street and create my magic again!

Q: Have you been inspired in a new way since the shelter in place orders? Anything new? A recipe, an exercise recommendation?

A: Definitely, this time gave me an opportunity to think, feel, and create. In the middle of everything, I found myself in Tampa, Florida creating new pictures. I also saw how people can react so differently to the events happening in our country. The news of George Floyd has started a revolution. We live in the most inspiring time and I hope we can become the ones who design a new system, a new world. For an artist, that is magic. 

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By Linda Mariano

Thirty years ago, Art Miami first opened its doors, initiating the idea that Miami was more than a summer beach town. Then, in 2002, the concept expanded with the first Art Basel Miami fair. And the initial Miami Art Week was born. Today, Miami Art Week rocks Miami with hundreds of thousands of art lovers, galleries, artists, and art media coming from around the globe for the world’s largest international art event.

The focus, the development, and the determination have definitely made Miami more than a beach town. In fact, the growth has expanded from Miami Beach to Downtown to Brickell and Wynwood. The development of Midtown; the sophisticated Design District; the excitement of Wynwood’s galleries, studios, restaurants; and the urban art-focused Wynwood Walls have all contributed to Miami’s visual and creative arts development.

It comes with little surprise that Miami’s arts development will continue to expand  northward with the announcement of Oolite Arts’ move to the Little River neighborhood. Oolite Arts originated more than three decades ago when its founder, Ellie Schneiderman, struck out to find affordable workspaces for Miami’s visual artists. Today, the mission of helping artists help themselves continues with robust programming and community involvement. The new home, slated to open in 2022, will enable the organization to expand its artist residencies and provide local artists with a top-tier exhibition and theater space, in addition to a makerspace and classrooms for the 200-plus annual classes already offered to artists and the surrounding community.

In this northward development march—from Wynwood to Midtown, the Design  District, Little Haiti, Magic City, and now Little River, Miami is revitalizing its neighborhoods. With pop-up retail and entertainment among the first priorities for the new Little River innovation district, the arts, including gallery and studio development, will be part of the mix. Long established as an industrial area, Little River developers are looking to create a culturally diverse area that is a job creator, with an innovation focus, bringing in a range of retail, commercial, residential, and community opportunities.

It’s a long-term project for the city and for the Little River neighborhood. Frank Morrison, NAI Kurtz commercial/industrial real estate specialist, is excited about the Little River innovation district and the community development. “It’s a growth market and a very attractive neighborhood. Supporting a vibrant visual and creative arts community is an exciting first step in the plan with the Oolite Arts’ new space located on 72nd Street, right in the heart of the Little River neighborhood,” he told Art Business News. “We’re excited to be involved with the city in making Little River a revitalization and growth opportunity.”

It’s a long-range view of where Greater Miami is headed. An exciting plan for galleries, studios, theater, retail, and residential to revitalize and grow a unique area of the city. It will certainly be the next area to watch in Miami’s continued development and neighborhood revitalization.

About Little River
Little River is a neighborhood in Miami. The neighborhood takes its name from the Little River that runs along its northern edge. The rapidly developing Little River district is becoming a hotspot of art, design, and culture. Made up by the heart and soul of those who call it home, Little River is filled with the stories of people who live and work around its namesake. Its residents and businesses are connected by their drive, ambition, and the northern waters that wind into Biscayne Bay.

About NAI Kurtz
NAI Kurtz is a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and property management firm, a South Florida tradition for 50 years. Its motto of “Integrity, Longevity, Consistency, Servicem” is not just a list of words but represents demonstrated traits and the reason for our success. NAI Kurtz offers local, deep roots with years of experience combined with the international reach of NAI Global, a managed network that today has more than 400 offices strategically located throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia Pacific, with over 7,000 local market professionals, managing in excess of 425 million square feet of property. http://www.naiflorida.com/NAI-Kurtz

For more information, contact Frank Morrison:

O: 954-771-4400

C: 954-801-0830

E: FrankM@NAIKurtz.com

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