How Street Art Keeps the Black Lives Matter Movement Alive

Context and Background

• The death of George Floyd sparked protests and a surge in street art as a medium of expression.
• Early June: D.C. Mayor Murial Bowser commissioned a street mural of "Black Lives Matter" in huge yellow letters on 16th street.
• Other cities followed, including Oakland, Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York City.

Significance of the Murals

• Murals have become symbols for the BLM movement and protests.
• Diversity in murals: Some cities maintained bright yellow letters, while others allowed artist groups to creatively interpret each letter.
• Murals are seen as a human rights statement, not political.

Controversies and Challenges

• Some murals have been defaced or challenged due to opposing political views.
• Arguments against murals suggest they are just symbolic and insufficient for real change.
• BLM organizers advocate for more concrete actions like defunding police.

Artistic Contributions

• Street art spans from murals to paintings, graffiti, poems, and stencils.
• Pieces include tributes to Breonna Taylor and George Floyd.
• Themes include ending racism and police reforms.

Impact of Street Art

• Public art confronts, surprises, and inspires community members.
• Art has become part of the urban landscape in cities like Oakland and NYC.
• Continues the message of the BLM movement even when protests subside.

Global Influence

• Street artists worldwide show solidarity with the BLM movement through art.
• Murals and graffiti serve as lasting reminders of ongoing activism.

About the Author

• Laura Mychal: Artist and Arts Professional based in Brooklyn, NY.