Graffiti Alley-A Different Kind of Art In Ann Arbor Michigan + How to See Graffiti Differently

Graffiti Alley in Ann Arbor Michigan | By Sherry Trautman | Traveling Michigan

Graffiti Alley is a new kind of Art in Ann Arbor that you don't want to miss....if graffiti is your kind of thing, that is. But even if it isn't, I have some ideas that might change your perspective.

The history of the Alley stems from an artist named Katherine Cost.  Ms. Cost originally painted an artwork entitled, "Infinite Possibilities" in the alley in 1999.  Unfortunately the work was painted over a few years later.  

Where is Graffiti Alley Located?

This colorful alley is located just off of East Liberty Street in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  You can visit The Alley if you are attending the mecca of art fairs in July as it's right in the heart of the art.   

Now the alley is open season for any graffiti artist to leave their mark...literally.  It's pretty crazy with lots of colors, messages and images.  It's a win-win though, as visitors love the alley. In the summer it is packed with people taking selfies and photos for Instagram.  

The artist Banksy stated, “Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.” 

How to Enjoy Graffiti Alley In Ann Arbor If Graffiti Isn't My Thing

Graffiti Alley is awesome to visit any time of year.  The cool thing is that it always evolves and changes!  Plus it's free! So try to open your mind to seeing something new, you might enjoy it!

Why Go?  How to See Graffiti DIFFERENTLY:

1. Do you paint? Take a photo of a small section and create an abstract piece from the shapes and colors.
2. Are you a jewelry artist? Take a look at the shapes.  The swirls can inspire a radical necklace or earrings.
3. Visual Interest: Don't look at the graffiti as a whole.  Look at small sections for color and shape only.  Squint at it and don't read it, just see the swirls for what they are and enjoy the vivid colors.

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A post shared by Sherry+Chris❤️Travel Michigan (@travelingmichigan) on Jan 17, 2019 at 12:00pm PST

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