Saturday, May 01, 2010

City United, Country United


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A few photos of the odd mural in the tiny neglected plaza next to the downtown MAX turnaround, on SW 11th between Yamhill & Morrison. It has the phrases "City United" and "Country United" on it, so I'm guessing that's what it's called. According to this 2007 press release, the mural was a joint effort of the police bureau and a couple of social service agencies, enlisting street kids to help spruce up this blighted spot. The mini-plaza is still generally empty & neglected, since it's in a weird location and there's really nothing to do there unless you're a transient looking for somewhere to sleep.

city united, country united

But at least it's all bright and cheery now, I guess. The part with the bonfire is kind of alarming, though. Sure, everyone's united, but I'm not sure their intentions are peaceful. Give them a few AK-47s and it'd look a bit like a mural out of Northern Ireland. Although in recent years those are starting to be seen as just a belligerent form of folk art, and even a tourist attraction. Maybe that's the ultimate goal here, I dunno.

city united, country united

city united, country united

city united, country united

city united, country united

city united, country united

city united, country united

city united, country united

1 comment :

mike said...

With that jumping dancer, it almost looks like you're supposed to stand on the other side of the wall and rest your chin on the ledge so someone can take your picture.