history telling walls

History in Motion Today

The past has the power to inspire the present moment. That is, if it’s given life again. If local residents, tourists, and employees, among others, are suddenly face to face with a community’s foundation. When history is revived, we not only commemorate older generations. We choose to celebrate the spirit of strength, growth, and endurance. We unveil a collective identity as we turn back the pages of time.

City centers and underpasses, parking garages, district buildings, neighborhood sidewalks, park installations, etc. are prime places to illuminate the shadows of long ago. Ordinary spaces within a town can garner global attention when they’re transformed with a history telling wall. Vibrant, narrative artwork can render a place unique. It can become a destination, a must-see in the area. It puts you “on the map” in a beautiful way.

Imagine young families stopping for photos, couples planning picnics nearby, and lifelong friends snapping selfies with a history telling wall. Such a permanent, bold addition would signify energy and enthusiasm now and yet to come. Perhaps a single wall could launch development in your city, school, or business district that you never dreamed possible. You have a story that deserves to be in the spotlight. Once in motion, history can capture us again or maybe for the very first time. It can speak. It can give hope.

  • The Market Street Railway Mural
    The Market Street Railway Mural (San Francisco, CA) shows a city on the move since the 1920s
  • The Market Street Railway Mural
    The Market Street Railway Mural (San Francisco, CA) shows a city on the move since the 1920s
  • The Market Street Railway Mural
    The Market Street Railway Mural (San Francisco, CA) shows a city on the move since the 1920s
  • The Market Street Railway Mural
    The Market Street Railway Mural (San Francisco, CA) shows a city on the move since the 1920s

If These Walls Could Talk…

They certainly can talk! Stunning examples of history telling walls are already making waves in their communities. Rundown districts and crumbling neighborhoods are thriving again.

All you have to do is look to Tamarac Historical Society, and you’ll see a mural depicting the story of Tamarac, Florida. Created by Vito Di Bari, the piece provides a look into the city’s past – how it began as a retirement village and now stands as a jewel of public art. We witness a wall of historical individuals and sites, as well as modern day art installations. A legacy that continues today unfolds before your eyes.

  • City Mural Example in Tamarac Florida
    Tamarac, Florida’s mural tells a story of transformation for residents and tourists alike
  • City Mural Example in Tamarac Florida
    Tamarac, Florida’s mural tells a story of transformation for residents and tourists alike
  • City Mural Example in Tamarac Florida
    Tamarac, Florida’s mural tells a story of transformation for residents and tourists alike

From there, look to San Francisco. Oversized art by associate artist, Mona Caron, showcases daily life and how it has shifted from 1920, through the decades, and to the 21st century. Perhaps its most inspiring elements are the panels which hold the urban hub’s impact on commerce, politics, culture, and invention. Not to mention, the last scene holds the promise of future San Francisco – bright, clean, and harmonious. Caron’s work can also be seen in a bicycle/pedestrian-use only part of the city: Duboce Bikeway Mural, which celebrates biking as a safe, dream-like, and fantastic way to travel.

Onward to Durban, South Africa, where associate artist, Faith47, painted six massive murals on the columns of the city’s viaduct near the Early Morning Market. These masterpieces enlarge the everyday men and women of the area. Local traders, vendors, and the creative community stand tall and remind onlookers to value and protect the informal economy. Faith47 brought magic in the midst of chaos. You feel that magic when you approach Warwick Triangle. The mural characters are based on real people and are representative of history, tradition, and the current neighborhood workforce.

  • A Study of Warwick Triangle at Rush Hour, Durban, 2014
    See how Faith47 makes a piece of cityscape inclusive and celebratory, instead of otherwise dull and alienating.
  • A Study of Warwick Triangle at Rush Hour, Durban, 2014
    See how Faith47 makes a piece of cityscape inclusive and celebratory, instead of otherwise dull and alienating.
  • A Study of Warwick Triangle at Rush Hour, Durban, 2014
    See how Faith47 makes a piece of cityscape inclusive and celebratory, instead of otherwise dull and alienating.
  • A Study of Warwick Triangle at Rush Hour, Durban, 2014
    See how Faith47 makes a piece of cityscape inclusive and celebratory, instead of otherwise dull and alienating.

A Story Worth Telling

Concrete surrounds us. Brick buildings tower above us. Uninspiring parking lots and courtyards overwhelm the cityscapes of today. Plan for the future.

Your city, town district, park, school, or company has a story worth telling. What if dull, gray structures that blend into everydayness were given a new voice? What if overlooked places could become beautiful landmarks? What if they could evolve into impactful horizons that motivate us to keep going and growing?

This can happen in your city. A history telling wall can enhance the environment, protect heritage, and inspire the generations of tomorrow. Seeking community growth and development? Want to witness interest and opportunity in your area? Di Bari & Associates will work to reveal your story in an artistic, meaningful way.