Project #2- “Building Blocks” @ 266 Main Street
266 Main Street, in the heart of downtown Burlington, has become a prominent eyesore. Covered in graffiti and vandalism, it sits directly across from Edmunds Elementary and Middle School at the intersection of South Union and Main Street. The building serves as the daily backdrop for children’s commuting, play and learning. As a gateway to downtown, its condition affects the character and vibrancy of the entire community.
The Solution:
Neighbors and parents of students are tired of letting this be the status quo. So together we are doing something about it! We’re transforming this building into a work of art with “Building Blocks”—a 3,461sqft. mural designed by acclaimed local artist Clark Derbes. Drawing inspiration from the building’s minimalist architecture, early digital design, and Vermont’s natural beauty, this vibrant mural also symbolizes the building blocks of childhood education, growth, and play. The use of large geometric shapes was intentional, making the mural easier to maintain and touch up in the future if needed.
Donate/Participate:
To make this vision a reality, we need to raise $10,000 by the end of September. This funding will cover the artist team’s fees, paint and supplies, equipment rentals, community paint days, and all other project costs.
Join us in transforming this eyesore into a source of pride for Burlington. Together, we can create a vibrant landmark that reflects our values, our children, and our community. All donations are processed through our nonprofit partner, the Edmunds Elementary PTO (Parent Teacher Organization), and are fully tax-deductible.
Community Paint Days:
Community paint days will be scheduled for mid-September. Please let us know you are interested and we will let you know when we schedule dates and times.
About the Artist:
Clark Derbes brings 25 years of artmaking experience with him everywhere he goes. His recognizable geometric style has been seen in sites throughout Burlington, from the Moran plant prior to brick demolition, to traffic control boxes, to parked tractor trailers. Central to his large scale exterior murals is accessibility and ease of the design so that the largest amount of people can help and feel included. His recent works have also been informed by the need for possible touch-ups should the works be vandalized. Clark has been a South End resident for 20+ years.
Why Art is a Solution:
Buildings with intentional, often commissioned or sanctioned, artwork (like murals) tend to attract less unwanted vandalism for several interconnected reasons:
Community Engagement and Ownership: Mural projects often involve local artists and communities, creating a sense of pride and ownership in the artwork and the space it occupies. This fosters a sense of collective responsibility and a desire to protect the artwork from defacement.
Increased Foot Traffic and Surveillance: Public art, particularly murals, can attract people to an area, increasing foot traffic and creating more "eyes on the street". This increased visibility can deter potential vandals.
Legitimization and Acceptance: Commissioned or sanctioned street art elevates it from mere vandalism to a form of valued artistic expression, which can reduce the appeal of defacing it.
While not a complete solution, incorporating murals and other forms of public art into urban spaces is an effective way to discourage defacement and foster positive community engagement.