Latest Mural Ordinance Draft Unveiled in Boyle Heights Today
A new proposed ordinance could be the saving grace for Los Angeles murals and the artists who create them, ending the controversial "mural moratorium."
Councilman José Huizar, along with muralists and art conservationists, was expected to unveil the latest draft this morning in the Boyle Heights Arts District, reports L.A. Now. The law would allow artists to legally create murals across L.A. on private property with the approval of property owners. All parties involved must agree to maintain the murals for five years without monetary exchange.
Huizar has been advocating murals for several years and has issued at least 19 motions in support of them. The City of L.A. appointed a "Mural Task Force," which turned to Portland for advice on drafting a successful mural ordinance.
Under the current ordinance, many murals are considered "advertising" post-creation and are removed or covered, regardless of the wishes of the property owner or whether the mural was crafted by request or by chance. Officials estimate that over 300 murals have been painted over in the last several years.
The city needs to build a better distinction between art and commerce, say Huizar and other ordinance supporters. The new ordinance will focus on identifying murals as "original works of art," says L.A. Now, instead of as signs, separating murals from L.A.'s sign ordinance ban. A firm line must be drawn via draft language.
