As Seen on the Street - CODAworx

As Seen on the Street

Client

Location: Seattle, WA, United States

Completion date: 2019

Project Team

Martin Selig Real Estate

DuGraf Design

Overview

The concept of this artwork was to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere in the spacious entrance foyer. Titled “As Seen on the Street,” the artwork reflects the subjects and the rationale behind the design. Initial sketches depicted all walks, stages and activities of life – creating a piece that could engage everyone who passes by. The artwork features a variety of scenes – an emotive facial expression, a cyclist navigating the street, a vendor in mid-delivery, and even a dog taking its owner for a walk, among other interactive scenes.

The chosen impressionistic/expressionistic style allows viewers to recognize the scene but leaves parts of the narrative open to their own interpretation. This approach fosters an “interactive” experience, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the scene and “finish the story” themselves. One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was hearing each passerby’s reaction and interpretation as I was in the process of painting the mural.

Goals

The goal was to create an interactive and engaging mural, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Everyone has something say and add to each of the scenes. I firmly believe that the true success of an artwork lies in the dialogue it stirs between the viewer and the work. Striving for a message that is both positive and uplifting is very important to me.

Process

The process began with individual sketches of street scenes and characters. These elements were then combined to form the final composition. Special attention was given to the selection of color palettes and line movements to maximize the flow and energy of the piece. The mural, measuring approximately 40 feet by 12 feet, is a vibrant acrylic painting on sheetrock. The elegant curve of the wall it adorns further enhances the welcoming and flowing experience.