Is It Art or Is It Ads? Does It Matter? Letters to the Editor History of the Mural · The Mural Controversy · The Mural Repaint · A Poetic Conclusion Kimberli Matin didn't mean to start a controversy when she arranged for the painting of the side of the building that occupies her business, Zodi Gallery, on Main Street in Carrboro. She wanted a project that would bring the community together, create art, and raise a few dollars for Club Nova, a local nonprofit. And while she has accomplished these goals, it seems not everyone is as happy with the end result as those who participated in its creation. She did speak with a representative of the Appearance Commisssion before work on the project began, as well as running it by Carrboro Mayor Mike Nelson, who reportedly thought it was a great idea. So Kimberli was stunned when she heard plans were brewing to make her cover it up. "I spoke with everyone I thought I needed to speak to, and they all said it was a go. I never would've invested all of this time and effort had I known I would be asked to cover parts of it up a few months down the road," says Maitin, who is obviously upset about the course of events that has transpired in recent weeks. The problem seems to be the language of a local ordinance. According to the Carrboro Appearance Commission, "Portions of the mural, i.e. those that contain the names of businesses or communicate advertising messages, meet the definition of “Off-Premises Signs” per Section 15-270 (3). Further, the presence of business names on the mural prohibits it from being a “work of art” and therefore being excluded from the ordinance per Section 15-272 (5)." Should there be exceptions to the rules? "It's a shame that somebody's effort to do something good for the community can be thrown out," says local architect Giles Blunden, who purchased spaces on the mural. "This mural is like a community quilt. There was a plan here, with bands of warm and cool colors. It's a terrific community project. To squash it would be just plain wrong. I think to insist parts of it be covered up is ridiculous." Upon hearing of the debate, Tyler Huntington of Tyler's Taproom wondered "How can the Appearance Commission demand it be covered up? Aren't they just an advisory board?" The truth is that they are just an advisory board. As an advisory board they are there to advise, not hand down legal edict. Whether they like the mural or not, it seems it shouldn't be in their power to demand any portion of the mural be removed or covered up within a certain period of time. Appearance Commissioner Catherine DeVine sees a different spin on the issue. "This was a perfect opportunity for the Appearance Commission to step in and call into question the existing ordinance," says DeVine. "They didn't do that." Many folks have invested much time and effort creating the mural. A large amount of money was paid to the mural artist coordinating the effort. So far, more than $1500 has been donated to Club Nova from folks buying spaces on the wall to paint. "It's just not right," says local poet Becky Carlson. Her husband, Dale, donated many hours creating art for various organizations, including the Carrboro Farmers' Market, Jade Palace, Carrboro Collaborative Development, and Can Pink Flamingos Fly?, Becky's book of poetry. "It's really hard to believe this is happening in Carrboro, where there is so much that is art-oriented. It's a shame." Many agree with Becky. The mural has been a tremendous community effort that has brought together lots of folks with a common goal -- to create a piece of art in the center of town that would be there for years to come to enjoy. After much discussion, it seems a peaceful resolution is at hand. Because the mural does violate existing ordinances, portions will be painted over to remove commercial messages. To leave it as is would open the door for other merchants to "advertise" in a similar fashion. We'll keep you posted as developments arise. History of the Mural · The Mural Controversy · The Mural Repaint · A Poetic Conclusion Home | Overview | About Us | Ads | Art | Businesses | Carrboro and Area Stuff | Carrboro Map | Computer Stuff | Downtown Carrboro Map | Events | Prices | Restaurants | UniqueOrn Enterprises