O P I N I O N

THE SOAPBOX

Stand up. Speak up. It’s your turn.

I waited for 45 minutes to take a photo in front of a mural in Nashville, TN.

During a hot day in Nashville, dozens of people lined up to interact with a mural painted on a brick wall and pose for a photo. This not only brought customers in the door for businesses surrounding the mural but also, brought attention to the city on social media. We want the same for Manchester and we need your help.

Murals are not just about aesthetics; they bring tangible benefits to communities. Studies have shown that public art can drive economic growth by attracting visitors and boosting local businesses. Cities with vibrant public art scenes often see a 20% increase in foot traffic, as murals turn ordinary streets into tourist destinations. This influx of visitors translates into economic benefits for nearby shops, restaurants, and service providers.

Moreover, murals contribute to safer communities. A University of Pennsylvania report found that areas with public murals experienced a 30% reduction in crime rates. The presence of art fosters a sense of pride and ownership among residents, deterring vandalism and illicit activities. This is particularly important for Center City, where community cohesion and safety are paramount.

The impact of murals extends to mental health and education as well. Exposure to public art has been shown to improve mental well-being. According to a study by the University of Winchester, 77% of people reported feeling happier and more relaxed after spending time around public art. In an era where mental health challenges are on the rise, murals offer a simple yet effective way to enhance community well-being.

In educational settings, murals can be powerful teaching tools. Schools near public art installations report higher levels of student engagement and creativity. By integrating art into everyday environments, we inspire young minds and foster a love for learning. This mural will emphasize the importance of public schools in shaping future leaders, serving as a constant source of inspiration for students and educators alike.

A Call to Action

In the heart of Center City, a new initiative is stirring excitement and promise. On June 28th, from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., Don Quijote will host a fundraising event to support the creation of a vibrant mural. This is more than an art project; it’s a statement of our collective identity and a celebration of our community’s spirit. This mural will represent and embody the community that it is in, a mural that highlights our immigrant communities, the resiliency of our community in center city, and the importance that our public schools play here for our future leaders. Murals, often overlooked, hold immense potential to transform our cities and our lives.

The upcoming fundraising event at Don Quijote is a pivotal moment for Center City. With a ticket price of $30, attendees will enjoy an evening of community, food, and art, with proceeds directly supporting the mural project. Our goal is to raise $5,400 to make this vision a reality. The Manchester Arts Commission has already committed $15,000, thanks to the support and allocation of funds by Joyce Craig, demonstrating the community’s dedication to fostering public art.

We invite everyone to join us on June 28. This is not just a fundraiser; it’s an investment in our community’s future. Together, we can create a mural that beautifies our city, celebrates our diversity, and fosters a sense of pride and unity.

Ticket link for June 28 Center City Mural fundraiser at Don Quijote. 

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