Forward Warrior takes art back to the streets
For the sixth year, Wylie Street gets a new coat of paint
This weekend, community arts event Forward Warrior assembles 36 of Atlanta’s most forward-thinking artists to open their creative process to the public, and collaborate on a new art display for Cabbagetown. For the sixth year, the group takes to the walls of Wylie Street for two days of painting and open interaction. The public — the community Forward Warrior paints for — is encouraged to come early to get one last look at the old display before it changes.
“It’s an opportunity for the artists and the community to really mix, get to know each other and see the process,” event organizer Peter Ferrari says. The sentiments are echoed by Forward Warrior’s other artists.
“Events like Forward Warrior allow for an open dialog between artists and the community,” Jonny Warren, an innovation-exploring participating artist involved, says. “Giving those who wouldn’t normally visit a museum or art gallery to experience art in a non-intimidating or pretentious way.”
These community events help the public put faces to the artists they enjoy. In 2014, the Cabbagetown community protested the Krog Masquerade. The ordeal rendered the city’s beloved graffiti canvas a blank slate as an effort to hinder what was seen as a gross exploitation of artists and the community. By giving people a chance to meet the artists who produce these striking pieces for ATLiens, it creates a bond and understanding between artists and the greater community. One that makes it harder for the wishes of one side to be ignored for the other’s benefit.
“It becomes a dialogue — literally,” participating artist Sanithna Phansavanh says. “You have people coming by, talking to you, asking questions … they’re able to learn about the process and that’s a beautiful thing.”
All members of the community are encouraged to attend the event and interact with artists in-action. Event organizers suggest bringing cameras. Due to the heat, note that bringing water is smart and sharing said water with artists is appreciated.