Roughly halfway between Miami and Fort Myers lies the beachfront community of Hollywood, Florida. Founded in 1925 by Joseph Young, Hollywood has grown into a vibrant and diverse city of over 143,000 people. Hollywood is a year-round destination for many tourists, from the white sand beaches to the plethora of fun things to do, it is no mystery why people come. Not only is this a great place to visit, it's a wonderful place to live. Temperatures stay warm during every season, the education system is highly rated, and the city is home to a strong and growing economy. The downtown area features a dynamic and energetic arts district. People come from far and wide to contribute and see some of the finest art in America. In addition, downtown is overflowing with restaurants, bars, live entertainment, shops, events, festivals and much more. This makes for the perfect backdrop for the monthly Downtown Hollywood Mural Project.
Since 2012, the Downtown Hollywood Mural project has been changing the face of downtown Hollywood. With an overall goal of enhancing art and culture in Hollywood, they have delivered time and time again. A number of talented artists take to different areas in the city and paint large and beautiful murals, to enhance this already beautiful close to the beach destination. As you walk through the beautiful tree-lined streets, live music fills the air, bringing a new layer of depth to this already fun and entertaining event. This is a perfect event for all ages and kids will love the bright colors and overall fun atmosphere. If you're a fan of art and unique communities, then the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project is the perfect outdoor arts expierence for you. We interviewed Phylicia Korchevsky, the Marketing and Promotions Coordinator for the City of Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency, to talk about this unique event.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project.
PK: The Downtown Hollywood Mural Project started in 2012. We attract people from all over the city and the surrounding areas with the beautiful mural on display. This is a great event for the entire family. We attract art enthusiasts, tourists, and couples, but everyone is welcomed and encouraged to come and check out this one-of-a-kind art.
RAL: What makes the event unique?
PK: Named “Best Public Art 2013” by New Times Broward, DHMP’s (Downtown Hollywood Mural Project) goal is to curate contemporary outdoor murals at key locations in Downtown Hollywood, which enhances and enriches the existing cultural fabric of our community. We also have artwork from international artists such as Kenny Scharf, Rone, The London Police, Jessy Nite and many more!
RAL: Take me through a typical day.
PK: This event is a walking tour through Downtown Hollywood to see each outdoor mural, as well as learn about the piece and the artist. The overall environment is one of an outdoor festival with live music and entertainment to enhance the experience. A notable highlight to our third Saturday Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk, DHMP artists engage the public and discuss their work while their mural is in progress. This is a perfect way for the artists and the community to develop a relationship and promote art awareness for all those who attend. During the event, we also have a guided mural tour throughout Downtown Hollywood with commentary on each mural. Aside from the art, there are plenty of dining options in Hollywood that are within walking distance and have something for everyone.
RAL: What can visitors expect to find for local lodging?
PK: There is lodging of all types in Hollywood. From luxurious options to affordable ones, there is a room for anyone who wants to visit. Make sure to make your reservations early during the winter months! This is a very popular destination for those looking for warmer weather. A few local options include Knights Inn Hallandale Beach, The Westin Diplomat Resort and Spa and Hollywood Sands.
RAL: Is there any one particular destination people flock to during the event?
PK: Downtown Hollywood is minutes away from Hollywood Beach and is easily accessible by the Hollywood Trolley, which is just $1 a ride. The Hollywood Beach Boardwalk is lined with resorts, hotels, and unique boutique hotels that are a part of Superior Small Lodging. These SSL hotels have fewer than 50 rooms and are distinguished by their friendly ambience and personalized service by an independent annual review.
RAL: What does the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project mean to the community?
PK: Strategically placed murals create points of interest that stimulate activity and improve the downtown economy. Local businesses benefit by having more traffic and people that live or work in the community benefit by having compelling works of art that are constantly visible. It’s a great opportunity for the community to welcome visitors and get to know each other better, with art as the common interest.
RAL: Why should people come?
PK: DHMP’s goal is to curate contemporary outdoor murals at key locations in Downtown Hollywood, which enhances and enriches the existing cultural fabric of our community. Share in Downtown’s Hollywood unique outdoor mural project, explore historic Downtown filled with shopping, dining, and art galleries.
For more information about the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project please visit their website.