Why Public Art Murals Make Cities More Livable

A case for embracing the quirky and everyday.

Mural created by Humanity Art: Lys Glassford and Lauren Semple. Photo Credit: MilleniumMedia

Cities Are for Everyone

Jane Jacobs, the godmother of urban vitality, once said that cities should reflect the people who live in them. Not just the affluent or the elite, but everyone. The heartbeat of a city is its diversity. Public art offers one of the most vibrant ways to showcase that. Especially on Vancouver Island, where community spirit and creativity thrive, public art murals play a key role in shaping spaces that feel inclusive, alive, and uniquely local.

Low-Brow Art is High-Value Culture

While polished sculptures and gallery-grade installations certainly elevate public spaces, they don't tell the whole story. Low-brow art, like humorous murals, street art, and eclectic wall pieces, taps into the everyday human experience. It’s authentic. It’s relatable. It’s the kind of art that celebrates the real people who work, live, and play in Nanaimo and across Vancouver Island.

Cities that embrace both high and low-brow art become more human and arguably more livable. They reject sterilized aesthetics and instead invite laughter, contemplation, and connection. Murals, especially when commissioned from local artists like Lys Glassford Art, transform blank walls into community backdrops.

The Fast Track to Beautification Without Gentrification

Beautiful spaces shouldn't come at the cost of displacement. Gentrification often rides on the back of public space "beautification" that overlooks community context. Murals may offer an antidote.

• Murals can be painted quickly, with community consultation, avoiding costly and disruptive construction.

• Hiring local muralists ensures the artwork speaks to and for the residents.

• Public art murals create cultural fingerprints that are impossible to replicate. Cities should be living canvases.

  
  

Research supports this idea. A 2021 report by the Americans for the Arts found that public art improves mental health, boosts tourism, and fosters social cohesion. These benefits are vital in economically diverse communities.

Vancouver Island Murals: A Living Case Study

From eclectic wall art in downtown Nanaimo to community-driven mural projects across Vancouver Island, the region already showcases rich examples of how street art enhances a sense of place. Wall art on Vancouver Island narrates, uplifts, and protects local identity. Municipalities and businesses have a unique opportunity to harness this momentum. By investing in mural projects that reflect diverse experiences, they can enhance public spaces while preserving their community essence.

Volunteers painting mural at RCL Branch 256. Project led by Humanity In Art, an artistic partnership between Lys Glassford and Lauren Semple.

Re-imagining Spaces Together

Whether you’re a city planner looking to invigorate underused alleys or a business owner seeking eye-catching exterior art, muralists like Lys Glassford Art are ready to help you turn visions into vibrant realities.

Public art isn't just decoration. It's storytelling, resistance, and celebration all rolled into one vibrant package of colour and community identity. When cities embrace the weird, the local, and the low-brow, they don't lose prestige; they gain personality.

The Power of Community Engagement

Engaging the community in art projects is vital. It fosters a sense of ownership and pride among residents. When people see their stories reflected in art, it creates a deeper connection to their environment. This connection can lead to increased community involvement and a stronger sense of belonging.

Collaborating with Local Artists

Working with local artists not only supports the creative economy but also ensures that the art resonates with the community. Local artists understand the nuances of their surroundings. They can weave in local history, culture, and humor into their work. This collaboration can lead to unique pieces that truly represent the spirit of the area.

The Economic Impact of Public Art

Investing in public art can have significant economic benefits. It attracts tourists, boosts local businesses, and enhances property values. A vibrant art scene can turn a neighborhood into a destination. People are drawn to areas that are visually appealing and culturally rich.

Art as a Tool for Social Change

Art has the power to challenge norms and provoke thought. It can address social issues and inspire change. Murals can serve as a platform for marginalized voices, bringing attention to important topics. By embracing diverse perspectives, cities can foster inclusivity and understanding.