This project explores the practice of artivism, a hybrid of art and activism. It spotlights several artists and groups who are using street art to spark public debate over the use of public space.
The introductory book in the series explores the concept of artivism and the politics of space, and frames street art as a form of artivism. You also get a history of public space debates and concepts.
The second book features the 'Poster Pocket Planter Project,' in which two Toronto artists create flower planters on top of illegal advertising posters. They're reclaiming public space, plant by plant.
The third book features Toronto artist Posterchild and Los Angeles artist Bumblebee and their latest projects in which they are re-purposing urban street furniture.
The last book features a Toronto arts coalition called Beautiful City and their mobilizing efforts to get a tax on billboards. It also features the MAK Center for Art and Architecture in Los Angeles and their exhibit 'How Many Billboards?' which proposed art instead of advertising.
Check out the blog Artivism 2010 to share your thoughts about artivism and send in your photos and add your voice to the mix.
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