Chicago Launches Online Mural Registry to Protect Street Art
The City of Chicago has launched the Mural Registry, an online database cataloging murals and graffiti on public and private walls, managed by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. The initiative aims to protect street art from accidental removal, following the destruction of a Blek le Rat mural commissioned by Cards Against Humanity during Amazon's HQ2 site selection process. Property owners, artists, and community members can register existing works, which must be commissioned or authorized by the property owner. Approved pieces receive a city emblem. The registry includes a map with 150 initial entries.
Key facts
- Chicago launched the Mural Registry, an online database for murals and graffiti.
- The registry is managed by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
- It aims to preserve street art from removal, following the destruction of a Blek le Rat mural.
- The Blek le Rat mural was commissioned by Cards Against Humanity and removed during Amazon's HQ2 search.
- Anyone can register a mural if it is commissioned or authorized by the property owner.
- Approved murals receive a city emblem.
- The registry includes a map with 150 initial entries.
- The initiative was announced in April 2019.
Entities
Artists
- Blek le Rat
Institutions
- Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
- Cards Against Humanity
- Amazon
Locations
- Chicago
- United States