Public street art is important

In the past week I visited the Alsace region of France and was impressed with the amount of street art that I saw in some towns. This included sculptures that were hanging or on the ground or painted posts or garbage containers.

Because it's free to the public, public art was often not appreciated. However, more and more public art is attracting tourists and locals.  In a number of cities, tours are available to see the public art.  For locals, public art can create a greater sense of attachment to one’s community.

Many cities have learned that they gain value through public art displays, this includes social, cultural and economic value. Public art is setting a growing trend by being an important and recognized part of our public history and our evolving culture. It adds meaning to our cities and creates uniqueness to our communities and neighborhoods, it reflects who we are and what we like to surround ourselves with.

It's more noticeable in older countries like Europe how public art provides a bridge between the past, present and the near future.  There is no shortage of public art in France, from beautiful signs to sculptures, to architectural aspects.  It is one of the main attractions.

Here are some of the modern public street art that I saw in the past week.

With the 150th anniversary of Canada, I'm proud that Ottawa has also invested in public street art.  From murals to stand alone pieces there is much to admire.

Since I've been away for the past couple of weeks, I haven't had time to paint much. Here is a small painting of a magnolia.

I've come back from this trip with hundreds of photos, include many from the Écomusée d'Alsace which is the most beautiful recreation of an old village from different centuries that I have ever visited.  In the next months, you will certainly see some of those photos converted into paintings.

Have a great week,

Danielle