The Commodity of Colored Bricks: The Limitations of Art in the Real Estate Market

By Stephanie Nicole Argueta

Murals have long been celebrated as a powerful medium of artistic expression, capable of transforming public spaces, conveying cultural narratives, and creating a sense of identity within communities. However, in recent years, the legality of murals in the United States is not without its challenges, especially with regards to murals made by and for minority groups. This article explores the relationship between street art and the real estate market. Part I of the article will look at the different federal and local laws that govern the placement and protection of street art. Part II will take a step back and look at the application of the law in a variety of cases across the country. Part III will then look at the sociological impact that both the creation and the removal of murals in immigrant and minority communities have on the population. This section will also look at the effects of gentrification in these spaces. Finally, Part IV will examine possible legal and social resolutions to deter the efforts of removal of murals and gentrification.

Part I: Federal & Local Laws

The vibrant tapestry of street art and murals has become an integral part of urban landscapes, fostering self-expression, cultural enrichment, and community engagement. However, the creation, maintenance, and removal of street murals are subject to a complex interplay of federal and state laws, designed to strike a delicate balance between artistic freedom and public order. In this section, we delve into the intricate legal framework governing street murals, explore the relationship between federal and state regulations, and various considerations that artists, municipalities, and advocates must navigate to create, protect, and sometimes dismantle these iconic works of public art.