Artists Create Countless Murals in Astoria on Saturday

The Welling Court Mural Project hit the scene in 2009 after residents of this Astoria microcosm invited Ad Hoc Art, a kind of think tank, to beautify their streets with urban images. The first unveiling took place in May 2010, with more than 44 murals of all colors, styles, and subject matter.

A tradition was born. Each year since, artists have come together to transform the area into a creative celebration and unique public art experience. (Organizers are quick to point out that it’s not graffiti because it’s commissioned.)

This Saturday is the sixth round, and more than 80 artists from around the world will be on Welling Court, creating site-specific works intended to change how people experience and interact with their environment. The event is also a block party with art lessons, food, music provided by AtotheK and Sleptember, and dance.

Details: Opening of Welling Court Mural Project, 11-98 Welling Court (30th Avenue and 12th Street), Astoria, June 13, noon to 8 pm, free but donations are encouraged. The murals will be on display in perpetuity after the event.

Photo by Ad Hoc Art