Over the past two summers a massive transformation has taken place on Croft Street: 120 properties/garages owned by residents of Lippincott, Croft and Borden streets were freed of graffiti vandalism by over 100 volunteers and very many gallons of paint. 15 amazing murals were created.

PC Scott Mills from 14 Division's Graffiti Program organized the events. Michael Brown, director for Harbourfront Community Centre's Outdoor Art Program supervised most of the murals, including the history of Croft Street in Monty Python-style art, at the corner College and Croft Street. Community CAVE, Laser Eagles, many mural artists as well as students from the Kensington Community Centre, St. Mary's School and Central Tech provided massive manpower.

The real story was that the kids and the residents met. Together, they made agreements on paint colours and mural designs. Respect was given and received, for art and for property. "I've got a nice spot on a good wall and the paint is free," said Zak Robinson in the Toronto Star article about the Croft Street transformation. "This is my favourite thing!"

Residents invested in artists who were formerly vandalizing their properties. One artist said after this, he's through with graffiti vandalism. "As a city we need free art where people have a space to express themselves. We know there's a place for art, just not every place."

Murals are a great way to beautify our neighbourhood and deter graffiti vandalism (not to be confused with graffiti art). We'll be at it again this summer, with the help of talented local artists. If you're interested in cleaning unwanted tags from your property, or better yet, wish to commission a mural, the HVRA Graffiti Committee is eager to assist you. Contact Michael Heydon at michaelh@citytv.com.