From March to May 2024, municipal services in Tbilisi completely painted over the graffiti and murals in the extensive network of underground passages on Heroes Square. This action destroyed several square meters of modern Georgian art, accumulated since 2017, that had been engaging in a dynamic dialogue.
A pressing question now is whether the city administration plans to hold a competition to renew the street art, or if they intend to combat these vibrant expressions with white paint. This issue is critical not only for the future of Heroes Square, but also for understanding the near future of Georgia’s social landscape.
The Significance of Street Art: Understanding Its Importance
The emergence of graffiti and street art in Tbilisi is intricately woven into the fabric of Georgia’s post-Soviet evolution. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Georgia underwent profound political, economic, and social transformations. The newfound freedom of expression provided fertile ground for artists to delve into themes previously censored or overlooked. Among the pivotal sites for this burgeoning public art form was the underground passage at Heroes Square, which became a critical platform for voices navigating and critiquing the rapidly shifting landscape of Georgian society.
Within the broader Georgian context, the underground passage at Heroes Square contributes significantly to ongoing dialogues on national identity and cultural heritage. The art adorning its walls frequently incorporates elements of Georgian history, folklore, and contemporary issues, creating a distinctive fusion of past and present. This synthesis actively shapes a modern Georgian identity that remains firmly rooted in tradition, while embracing new influences.
One of the most profound impacts of this art passage is its role in democratizing art itself. Unlike traditional forms confined to galleries and museums, street art is accessible to all. This inclusivity breaks down barriers between artists and the public, fostering a more engaged and participatory cultural experience. It challenges elitist perceptions of art, opening up space for diverse voices and perspectives to flourish.
Tbilisi’s vibrant street art scene has transformed the city into a cultural magnet, drawing tourists from around the globe. This influx not only brings economic benefits but also promotes cultural exchange. Tourists engaging with the art in the underground passage gain deeper insights into Georgian culture and history, while local artists are exposed to global artistic trends and ideas.
Furthermore, the artistic revitalization of the underground passage plays a crucial role in urban renewal. What might otherwise be a neglected or purely utilitarian space is transformed into a visually stimulating environment. This aesthetic enhancement enriches the urban experience for both residents and visitors, rendering public spaces more inviting and enjoyable.
The evolution of street art in Tbilisi, particularly at the Heroes Square passage, signifies far more than mere artistic expression. It encapsulates a journey of societal transformation, cultural introspection, and urban revitalization, embodying the essence of a city and its people moving forward while preserving their heritage.
The Perils of Destruction: The Danger of Erasing
The destruction of public art in the underground passage on Heroes Square has resulted in the loss of significant cultural heritage in Tbilisi. These artworks were not merely decorative; they were integral to the city’s identity and historical narrative. Their removal has erased important cultural markers and diminished the richness of Tbilisi’s artistic heritage. Future generations are now deprived of the opportunity to connect with these expressions of their cultural past.
The public art in the underground passage served as a crucial platform for social and political expression. Its destruction has silenced these voices, removing a vital means of public discourse and protest. The loss of this space has limited the community’s ability to engage with and challenge societal issues, resulting in a more subdued and less vibrant civic life.
Formerly fostering community cohesion by providing a shared space for artistic expression and dialogue, the destruction of public art has disrupted this sense of community. The loss of a communal gathering place where people could engage with art and with each other has negatively impacted social cohesion, reducing opportunities for collective experiences and cultural exchange.
Prior to its destruction, the transformation of the underground passage through art significantly enhanced the urban aesthetics of the area. Now, without these artworks, the space has reverted to a more sterile and less engaging environment. This loss is felt by both residents and visitors alike, diminishing the visual and cultural appeal of the city. The passage has lost its character and vibrancy, making it a less attractive and inviting space.
The destruction of public art in the Heroes Square passage has not only erased cultural heritage and silenced voices of expression but has also impacted community cohesion, urban aesthetics, and tourism. The loss of these artworks represents a setback for the city’s cultural vibrancy and identity, highlighting the enduring significance of public art in shaping and preserving urban landscapes.
The History of Suppression: Exploring Past Attempts to Ban and Paint Over Street Art
Graffiti, often born from unauthorized acts, has long been perceived primarily as vandalism, rooted in a societal contract that prioritizes property rights and community order. Seen as a disruption to the aesthetic and functional harmony of public spaces, unauthorized graffiti is swiftly condemned as a violation of these principles.
Central to this perception is the “Broken Windows Theory,” which argues that visible signs of disorder, like graffiti, can foster crime and antisocial behavior. To uphold an image of control and safety, municipal authorities frequently resort to painting over graffiti, aiming to prevent further disorder and maintain community standards.
Moreover, graffiti’s potential to devalue property and deter business investment prompts cities to allocate considerable resources to its removal. This economic rationale reflects a collective interest in safeguarding property values and enhancing urban aesthetics, crucial for attracting tourism and fostering commercial activity.
Public art remains subject to prevailing cultural and social norms within a community. Graffiti deemed offensive or inappropriate is swiftly removed to align with these norms, reflecting a broader societal contract that prioritizes majority sensibilities over individual expression.
Embracing Creativity: The Shift Towards Encouraging and Allowing Street Art
In contrast, sanctioned street art can enrich the cultural tapestry of a community. Murals and public art projects are increasingly encouraged as they celebrate local history, diversity, and creativity, fostering a shared cultural identity and bolstering community pride.
Cities worldwide, from Berlin to Miami, leverage street art as a tourist draw. Renowned street art can transform neglected areas into vibrant cultural hubs, stimulating local economies and enhancing urban vitality. Thus, promoting public art becomes a strategic maneuver to boost tourism and spur local business growth.
Street art also serves as a potent medium for social and political commentary. Encouraging such expressions provides a platform for marginalized voices, stimulating dialogue and raising awareness of pressing societal issues. This commitment resonates with democratic values and emphasizes the importance of free speech and civic engagement.
Public art initiatives frequently engage community participation, forging stronger social bonds and instilling a sense of ownership among residents. Collaborative murals and sanctioned graffiti walls channel creative energies constructively, engaging youth and discouraging illegal graffiti.
Strategically placed street art revitalizes urban areas, revitalizing blighted spaces into dynamic environments. This transformation aligns with broader urban planning goals aimed at enhancing resident quality of life and crafting aesthetically pleasing public spaces.
The coexistence of bans and encouragement of graffiti and street art underscores a complex social contract navigating competing interests and values. While the need for order, property rights, and economic stability drives the prohibition and removal of unauthorized art, recognition of art’s role in cultural enrichment, economic development, and social commentary fuels its promotion and integration into urban planning initiatives.
By Ivan Nechaev
