Graffiti has been around for quite some time, perhaps since the Ancient Greeks and Roman Empire (doesn’t it seem like the Greeks and Romans invented and did just about everything). While some may view graffiti and other forms of art in public space as ‘vandalism,’ it is a valued form of expression for many others. When cities work in conjunction with artists, the art becomes more than a few tags on someone’s wall.
Walking around Montreal, in particular downtown or the Plateau, it is inevitable to pass many murals. The city of Montreal encourages, or at least allows, artists to display their talents outside of art galleries for all to see. Similar to the way the city handles other forms of artistic expression, such as Tam Tams, Montreal does not discriminate.
I’ve heard people describe Montreal as a ‘boho’ city, and for lack of a better description, I’ve used ‘boho’ a few times myself. The modern appropriation of the word bohemian would have us believe that everyone walks around in open sandals, flowy, floral skirts, and with, how shall I say, a lax concern for personal hygiene. Loaded stereotypes aside, historically a bohemian is an artist, and adventurer who strive for their romanticized beliefs, and in this Francophone/ Anglophone city, that spirit lingers.
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i've always wanted to go to montreal and i'm thinking about going to mcgill come time for college and the knowledge that all this wonderful art is out on the street for all to see is only making the city more appealing!
Montreal is really amazing. I have a slight obsession. Can you tell? Creative expression is really encouraged (at least that is the vibe I get) with all of the public artwork and festivals throughout the year. Definitely look into McGill!