102319 LETTER Meghan Maike For Murals
Dear Editor,
It has come to my attention that there is some rustling to call for a board to review any painting on buildings in downtown Clarksdale.
I would like to express my objection to a board review for the following reasons:
Firstly, the buildings being painted are private property. This effectively limits the freedom of privately held residences and enterprises to decorate as they see fit. Who is proposed to be the judge of aesthetics for the town? Will it be 4-5 people's personal opinions deciding the decor for all of the town? We as a community have already explored this idea, and voted to not have the Main Street Program come to Clarksdale, and chose instead to grow and prosper in our own unique way.
Secondly, Paint Clarksdale already has parameters in place to ensure that there isn't offensive works painted: no profanity, no religion, no politics, no nudity. Beyond that, the artists paint in their style, their designs. They are sent a packet of information explaining what Clarksdale and the region are about (i.e. blues, agriculture etc) and they all tend to make thoughtful reference in their designs, so as to be relevant to the community. All of the artists, from near and far, put a lot of heart and intent into their paintings, with great reverence to the local history.
The overall response to the project has been overwhelmingly positive, with supportive encouragement to carry on. I would hate to see the very few detractors dictate the future of our town and jeopardize the potential to expand our tourist attractions. Already with this weekend’s Deep Blues Festival, many of the visiting attendees have requested to be led on walking tours. This means they will be engaging with downtown Clarksdale as pedestrians. Should they get hungry or thirsty, they can dash into a local restaurant. Or perhaps in their wandering, something catches their eye in a shop window. This project is meant to stimulate, which it has already done - in conversation, debate, community engagement, and local economy.
I aim to work towards positive growth, rather than limiting opportunity.
Thank you for your time and your ear,
Meghan Maike
Clarksdale, Miss.
