Local Graffiti Mecca May be In Danger of Demolition

Cynthia Marie Wednesday, May 22, 2013

A luxury housing project is trying to replace world-renowned graffiti mecca 5Pointz. Long Island City artists, however, are trying to block a plan to tear this piece of art down.

The internationally known 5Pointz demolition is causing great controversy. G & M Realty wants to build two residential high-rise buildings there, but they will need a change in zoning to do it.

A spokeswoman for the graffiti community, Marie Flageul, said, “Anybody involved with 5Pointz feels it’s an asset to the arts community. I hope New Yorkers wake up for once and take arms now instead of mourn later.”

The issue is expected to be discussed today. David Wolkoff, president of the development company, is expected to introduce his plan for a 41- and 47-story tower and will argue for a zoning variance, based on the plan to add amenities to the buildings, such as a simulated golf course, barbecue areas, and an indoor rock-climbing wall.

The executive director of LIC Arts Open explains that this is part of an age-old New York ritual. Artists make an area or neighborhood trendy and then the developers move in and try to kick them out.

While some believe that this project makes sense as far as boosting the economy and the number of residents, artists believe that it is just removing another place for them to legally paint. This may force many to paint on the streets illegally.

 

cynthiam@longislandyellowpages.com

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