What's with all the negativity? It's almost like reading the Commercial Appeal comment section.

Keep in mind ppl, this is a mural, not a graphic design printed poster. This is public art, and things will look much different when painted on a wall, sidewalk, etc.

Caroline, I hope the comments here are viewed as genuine concern for the appearance and reputation of our city. Memphis' self-image has greatly improved in recent years but it seems now that if you question the motive or execution of anything that's "positive" for the city then you're instantly labeled a hater. Art murals made across the city is a wonderful concept but putting up inadequately designed "ad art" around the city by unpaid artists is not my idea of what's good for our local artists seeking a living here or for the artistic reputation our creative community has worked so hard to build and maintain.

Vint, although these murals may have been designed by people from all facets of life, they will be paired with an "artist" when creating the final piece. They are a draft, an idea. Everyone can have those, right? Who are we to judge who is or is not an artist? Is it only those who are paid for the craft? That seems a bit silly to me. I think putting the word professional in front of artist may be more appropriate so as not to negate the efforts of many great artists such as Swoon, Jorge Rodriguez Gerada or Banksy who work on the streets without pay so as to bring art to everyone and combat the actual ads that we are forced to consume everyday made by, you got it, paid artists.

[...] PS, don’t forget to vote for me in the I Love Memphis mural contest! Voting goes until noon on Friday. Thanks! 5 Comments LikeBe [...]

Mel, my statements are not trying to define who is and isn't an artist. Yes, the designs will be paired with an artist but that essentially means the artist is now just a painter, an unpaid painter at that. Where will their creative input be in these three murals? I promote the purpose of professional artists because they are the ones who have dedicated themselves to this craft, they are the right people for the job to spread public art in Memphis. Who would you rather perform surgery on you, the trained and experienced surgeon or the guy who just likes blood and guts and cutting stuff open for fun? Art is for everyone and can be made by anyone but when it comes to large scale public art that reflects on the city as a whole, it should respectfully be left to professionals.

Vint, I was not suggesting that murals should mindlessly be put up around town under the guise of being positive. I am, however, suggesting that people seem to demonstrate a tendancy to complain a lot.

I'm curious to know how many, if any, votes did my designs receive.