South Side Public Art

The South Side had been a fertile ground for graffiti vandalism. In 2007 Graffiti Watch a volunteer action group of the South Side Community Council (SSCC) was formed with the goal of preventing and removing graffiti vandalism on the South Side.
As Graffiti Watch managed graffiti vandalism, we recognized that several the graffiti pieces were excellent examples of urban art and should be preserved. We realized that property owners and taggers have similar goals: to feel valued and respected, to have a feeling of place, to have a voice, to be empowered, to be creative. We became weary of painting over graffiti and understood that maintaining a polarized relationship with graffiti artists falls short achieving the goals of creating an inclusive vibrant community.
It occurred to Graffiti Watch that a proactive approach to addressing graffiti should be considered and south Side Community murals Project was established to promote and encourage artists to engage in the community with their artistic talents in addition to serving as a viable means of graffiti prevention and saving the costs of law enforcement activities and graffiti removal. This positive approach is inclusive and celebrates the diversity and creativity of artists in Pittsburgh and elsewhere. We have since broadened our vision to include other artistic mediums and now call the project South Side Public Art.

Did You Know?

East Carson Street and some adjacent streets fall under the City of Pittsburgh Historic Guidelines. If you are planning a mural or artwork within the Historic District, please see our East Carson Street Historic Guidelines page.