the work in progress

Reclaim the mural

19 November 2011

Whitechapel Gallery is dedicating part of its space this autumn to a very noble initiative from artist collective The Work in Progress’: Reclaim the mural.

Brixton mural
Brixton mural

An artistic expression present in pretty much every single city many times as a local neighborhood initiative, although some of these murals still answer political propaganda purposes or even early product advertising from early XX century. Work in Progress (Benedict Drew, Emma Hart, Dai Jenkins, Dean Kenning, and Corinna Till) focus on understanding mural making in London, the reasons why it has waned in recent decades, and its potential as a critical form of art.

Carnaby St mural
Carnaby St mural

The project, besides questioning & discussing with local residents the ideas & reasons behind the existence of these public murals (is it art? Is the mural a stunted form?), sets out to produce a new mural exploring the processes of finding a wall, asking the public and collaborating on design. Here’s when the team faces traditional difficulties… answering a particular area of interest of contemporary life, housing issues…etc

Reclaim the mural logo
Reclaim the mural logo

You shouldn’t limit yourself to visit Whitechapel’s mini-exhibition as the initiative is open for everyone to participate. You can contact the gallery and guide them to your local mural & help them build an extensive map of murals in London, or you can forward them your photos which will contribute to the ever-growing tumblr the collective has created. More info & pics this way.

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