The former Ballard Blossom building has become covered in graffiti, so the Ballard Alliance is organizing to have it wrapped in murals.
The Ballard Alliance and the Ballard Public Art Committee have partnered with Novo Painting and Property services and the property management of 1766 NW Market St for the mural project. They’re seeking four muralists to wrap the property on two sides, covering both the first and second floors of the building.
“By covering the currently vacant and tagged property with art, this project will transform the streetscape through art, enhance the pedestrian experience, promote community identity, and deter future graffiti,” the Ballard Public Art Committee says in their call for artists. “We understand that murals can help deter graffiti and reduce crime, if not just the perception of crime, and can help rally a community by bringing hope to those who encounter the murals.”
The mural will cover the south- and east-facing sides of the former Ballard Blossom site, painting the first and second floors, including some windows on the first floor facing NW Market St.
The Alliance plans to set up a GoFundMe to help crowdsource payment for the selected artists and disbursement will be made through the Ballard Public Art Committee.
The property will eventually become home to a seven-story hotel, and will be demolished in about three years.
“While any mural work will ultimately be temporal, we are excited about having a two-story mural-covered building right on Market Street for the next few years,” the Ballard Public Art Committee says.