In his newest solo exhibition, Cosby Painter Hayes reaches beyond majestic murals to create small-scale wonders.
These newest works delve into a unique aesthetic he’s grown up with – the look and feel of touristy Florida. After a packed opening in April, the Artport Gallery exhibit, which runs through May 15, has become a popular site for visitors and locals alike to see flamingo floaties and golden dolphins.
Gratifying graffiti
From the dawn of humankind, cave dwellers have painted walls to express themselves and tell stories through markings and images. Greeks and Romans painted significant protest poems on the sides of walls, like those found in Pompeii. In the late 1800s, guerilla fighters during the rebellion painted graffiti to challenge slavery and oppressive regimes.
Modern graffiti evolved in appearance but continued to challenge and subvert the status quo. Through time, painting directly onto street walls gained validation and birthed the art of street murals.
These extra-large paintings add character to any town and provide a literal space for artists to share their work with the community. Tallahassee artists have beautified the sides of buildings and city walls in areas like Railroad Square, Midtown and Frenchtown.