Deep Ellum creates a new mural district

by PegNews wire

RE*COV*ER, a mural series project sponsored by the Deep Ellum Association and the Deep Ellum Foundation, embraces the new and changing face of Deep Ellum's future. The theme, "RE*COV*ER," speaks both to the recent history of the Deep Ellum tunnel and how artists have traditionally played a key role in the development of the neighborhood.

Deep Ellum has always prided itself on being an artist community and a collaborative environment. In reclaiming it's artistic roots and a strong sense of community, there exists a respect for original works of art. Community leaders and neighborhood activists developed the idea for a mural series competition to assist in attracting artists from around the state and engaging them in the Deep Ellum community. Conceived to help beautify the community, the Re*Cov*Er Deep Ellum Mural Series seeks to regain original works of art to help create a new mural district in the heart of the Deep Ellum neighborhood. Artist and gallery owner, Frank Campagna, who served as artistic director for Tunnelvisions and the Deep Ellum Art Walk, will coordinate each installment of Re*Cov*Er.

The competition is open to all Texas artists, designers, students, teachers and community groups. Either working individually or in teams, they are invited to submit mural designs that honor the artistic roots of Deep Ellum. A panel of judges and community leaders will select ten images for the public murals on Main, Commerce and Canton Streets. The competition will be conducted in collaboration with local galleries, the Dallas Arts Magnet School and the Society of Figurative Arts. Studio Fling will host an exhibition of the submissions for a public comment opportunity in early May. A call for entries to launch the Deep Ellum Mural Series Competition will be announced March 31, 2008, with a deadline for submissions at noon on April 30, 2008

The first phase of the mural series, painted last year, is located along Elm Street and honors "Music Legends" with a connection to Dallas. The second installment of the Re•cov •er Deep Ellum Mural Series will encompass Main and Commerce Street and is not limited to any specific theme. Submissions for consideration may include people, places, or events. The costs of paint for the murals will be sponsored by the Deep Ellum Association, The Deep Ellum Foundation, property owners and private donations.

A special ceremony will be held to celebrate the winning artists and unveil the second phase of the murals on May 25, 2008. Three top prizes will be awarded, plus an additional People's Choice award. The winning artists will receive a commission for their mural and will also be featured in the Deep Ellum Mural Series virtual tour documenting the work of each artist. The Re*Cov*Er mural series competition will be held annually and murals will be on display for a period of up to one year. There is a $20.00 entry fee. For more information please contact Alison Welsh at 214.748.4332 or savedeepellum.org.

Source: The Deep Ellum Association