Discover the Impact of Street Art Across America During the Pandemic

With businesses across the US shuttered and shop windows boarded up, it’s a bleak scene in many of the country’s urban centers. However, grappling with societal issues is par for the course for artists of a certain stripe. From coast to coast, they’re stepping into the breach, using all that plywood – plus walls, benches, mailboxes, and pretty much any space that’s available – as a blank canvas to share messages of hope, resilience, good humor, and public safety. From sincere tributes to essential workers to light-hearted visual gags, explore the standouts from around the country.

1. Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte local Darion Fleming began painting large-scale murals in 2018 under the moniker Daflemingo, and his work has sprouted across the Queen City and beyond. As the crisis unfolded, he noticed “a severe lack of hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and other essential supplies,” which sparked a unique idea. On March 12, he conceptualized the mural titled “Purell” representing sanitizer as liquid gold, highlighting its newfound value by creating a digital mockup that very night. He started painting the next day, dedicatedly completing it over eight days.

Finding a legal wall to paint on wasn’t easy, yet he had previously painted in the same location, establishing a good rapport with the building owner. Situated in the heart of Charlotte’s arts district, the piece has gained both local and national attention. His goal is to provide enjoyment and laughter, stating, “I think a little comedic relief can be really healthy during such a serious time,” which is reflected in the hidden text ‘Available Nowhere’ on the mural.

2. Denver, Colorado

Artist Austin Zucchini-Fowler is known for creating large-scale wall paintings that honor essential workers in various sectors, from healthcare to education. Inspired to showcase his gratitude for healthcare professionals, he initiated a series named ‘walls of gratitude’. His first murals featured healthcare workers embellished with angel wings and boxing gloves, evolving into depictions of a teacher, chef, and construction worker. Each piece takes around two-and-a-half days to complete.

These artworks are prominently displayed throughout the RiNo Arts District, near high-traffic areas like the EXDO event center and Denver Central Market. Zucchini-Fowler has partnered with local breweries to feature his murals on wine pints, donating thousands to essential workers.

3. Miami, Florida

Graffiti artist Jules Muck, known as Muck Rock, captures the essence of Miami’s atmosphere with her mural “Fear Kills”. Located in Wynwood, the piece features a closeup of a woman in a face mask, symbolizing the panic surrounding COVID-19. Muck painted it on March 12 when community concern was rising. She demonstrates through her art how fear led to self-serving behavior during challenging times.

4. San Francisco, California

Fnnch, a street artist known for his whimsical honey bears, has transformed his designs to promote mask-wearing amid the pandemic. Since 2013, Fnnch’s honey bears have become a recognizable symbol of happiness across San Francisco. Moreover, with the challenges posed by COVID-19, he’s adapted his designs to encourage healthy behaviors by adorning them with masks. His pieces are strategically placed in areas where many businesses are currently closed, providing a vibrant and uplifting message during these uncertain times.

5. Seattle, Washington

Seattle-based artist Patrick Nguyen, known as Dozfy, has rapidly become a prolific muralist since the pandemic began. Focusing on a campaign titled “Stay Strong Seattle,” he creatively brought hope to the local community using an iconic representation of the Space Needle enveloped in a heart. His artwork serves as a beacon of hope during these challenging times, also symbolizing the importance of support and connection in a time of social distancing.

The murals can be seen in various neighborhoods across the city, delivering a positive, uplifting message for all who encounter them. Through each piece, Nguyen emphasizes that “we’re all in it together,” aiming to cement community spirit and resilience through his art.