NORFOLK, VA – Asphalt transformed into an artist’s canvas and in Denby Park, caps off the final Bloomberg Asphalt Art Initiative project. The Denby Park piece titled Upward Onward, highlights the history and promise of Wards Corner and the neighborhood as the “Times Square of the South” with brightly colored buildings and sunny skies. The artwork uses pedestrian movement to evoke a sense of activity and caution at the busy Little Creek intersection. “My main goal is to not only beautify, but also to unify and connect people to the spaces I’m working in. Creating spaces where anyone whether they are native to the location or not, will feel welcomed, included, and seen,” said Britney Gatewood, artist.
Britney holds a BS in Business Entrepreneurship from Norfolk State University and a Masters in Urban Planning from California State University.
Volunteers are needed to help paint!
All ages and skill levels are invited to help us paint September 22-24. Show up any time 10am-5pm or choose a 2 hr. time slot here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094baaab2ea0ff2-volunteer
Then join in a free Community Celebration and Asphalt Art Dedication: September 25 from 1-3pm. Meet at the lot across the street from Big Al’s Muffler Shop at 287 E. Little Creek Road. Students from neighboring Evelyn Otts Dance School will perform to the music of Diva DJ. Enjoy free burritos from Guads, Copsicles from the Norfolk Police Department, face painting, a photo booth, and neighborhood fun.
Upward Onward is supported by a grant from the Bloomberg Asphalt Art Initiative with funding awarded to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Virginia and Norfolk Arts. Three streets, one in each of the three Norfolk Police Patrol Districts will eventually be painted. Asphalt Art creates an opportunity for the police to engage residents, embrace communities, and helps to ensure those living in the area feel looked after and cared for. The events not only beautify and enliven neighborhoods, but they also increase police-community trust.
Watch this video of the first project in Five Points: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=180793893520957