The Lost History of D.C.'s Murals

Washington City Paper creates a record of the many murals that have been lost to new construction and shifting demographics in neighborhoods around Washington, D.C.

1 minute read

September 2, 2015, 5:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell

"Murals that depict the history and fabric of life in the District are being literally erased, and as public works of art like the one on the Ontario Theatre disappear, so are important expressions of neighborhood identities," according to an article by Justin Lynch.

An inventory of losses: "Since 2010, seven murals in the U Street NW area have been taken down or blocked from view by new construction. Two were blocked from view by apartments or buildings next door, two were removed when the building was torn down, and three have been removed at building owner(s) requests."

The article includes specific information about the backstory of some of the murals that have been lost—many of which have backstories about police brutality or the systematic marginalization of minority populations that could have informed an understanding of contemporary experiences, had they survived. Added to the indignity of a mural depicting jazz great Duke Ellington, since 2011 "a faded advertisement has taken its place," asking passersby to "Drink Coca-Cola."

FULL STORY: D.C.’s Historic Murals Are Disappearing

Monday, August 31, 2015 in Washington City Paper

Community / Economic Development History / Preservation District of Columbia Washington D.C. Murals Public Art Gentrification View More

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