Lower Clinton’s Artistic Makeover

^{Damon Ginandes at work on his mural next to 200 Clinton St.}

Much of the work popping up around town, from artists such as Dface, is due, in large part to No Longer Empty, a group of artists and curators who have come together to create projects utilizing vacated storefronts and offices in Manhattan. The group states, “NO LONGER EMPTY was conceived specifically to encourage an artistic response to our present economic condition and the effect on both the urban landscape and the national psyche. The numerous vacated buildings in New York City provide an opportunity for artists to revitalize these spaces with
thoughtful, sustainable art installations.”

Although the work seems to bring a smile to many passersby and always attracts a crowd, I overheard one older man shout out, “What are you trying to do, make my neighborhood better? That’ll raise my rent!”