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#Water Writes, a global public arts initiative spearheaded by the Estria Foundation, has enlisted community artists to paint the tenth of 12 water-themed murals on the south- facing wall of Valley Youth Theatre, located on the corner of Fillmore and First Street in Downtown Phoenix.
Each of the locations selected for #WaterWrites murals—California, Honolulu, Palestine, Philippines, El Salvador, Colombia, South Africa, British Columbia and Phoenix— are facing critical water issues. The Downtown Phoenix mural, “Water Is Life,” will incorporate imagery designed to inspire and educate—on the way in which water is delivered into Phoenix, the impacts of wasteful water policies, and sustainable energy alternatives.
Local community organizations, Black Mesa Water Coalition, Tonatierra, PUENTE, and the Phoenix Revitalization Corporation have worked together with a team of community artists, including Jeff Slim, Angel Diaz, and Averian Chee to create the mural image. Painting will begin on Sunday, April 28 at 2 p.m. and the finished wall will be unveiled during First Friday on May 3 at 4 p.m.
“To get a mural of this caliber, with such a great story, is a big win for Downtown,” said Downtown Phoenix Partnership Vice President Terry Madeksza. “To have community artists using Valley Youth Theatre as their canvas makes the effort all the more special.”
Everyone is invited to attend the mural’s kickoff “paint party” on site at Valley Youth Theatre at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 28. The paint party will feature complimentary food and refreshments by Squash Blossom, live music, and an opportunity for attendees to paint a portion of the wall.
To help support, or get more information on the #WaterWrites Mural series visit www.estria.org or visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAeYOrZbJtA to watch videos of the completed mural projects.
About The Downtown Phoenix Partnership
The Downtown Phoenix Partnership is a nonprofit organization made up of property owners located in Arizona’s Urban Heart, between Fillmore to south of Jackson Streets and Third Avenue to Seventh Street. The Partnership provides enhanced municipal services within this area including the management and marketing of Downtown Phoenix. For more information, visit DowntownPhoenix.com. The Partnership can be reached at (602) 254-8696.
About Black Mesa Water Coalition
Black Mesa Water Coalition is dedicated to preserving and protecting Mother Earth and the integrity of Indigenous Peoples’ cultures, with the vision of building sustainable and healthy communities. BMWC strives to empower young people while building sustainable communities. www.blackmesawatercoalition.org
About The Estria Foundation
Founded in 2010 by graffiti legend Estria Miyashiro, the Estria Foundation creates art in public spaces locally and globally with artists, educators, and activists in an effort to raise awareness and inspire action in the movement to resolve human and environmental issues. For more information visit www.estria.org
