Issue 46 -Three poems in praise of Community Art - Peter Devonald
changing the world one image
one sentence
one dream
at a time.
“If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him. We must never forget that art is not a form of propaganda; it is a form of truth. But democratic society — in it, the highest duty of the writer, the composer, the artist is to remain true to himself and to let the chips fall where they may. In serving his vision of the truth, the artist best serves his nation.”
President John F. Kennedy address at Amherst College 1963.
Peter Devonald
Modern Fresco
“People say graffiti is ugly, irresponsible and childish...
but that's only if it's done properly.”
Banksy, Wall and Piece
I left my mark upon the wall
to tell the world that I counted all
to tell the world that I was here
at least in this moment I appeared
I am visible, important and scattered
my thoughts and words mattered
I am here now, feel and always am on
I can be seen, glowing vibrant neon
I loved and cried here
I screamed and dreamed here
I imagined and hoped for a better life
it all had meaning beyond the strife
I might not have the money or the suit
might not have the plan or a career route
might not be what people admire or think
but I matter with every word I speak
you might not know my name
but you’ll recognise my tag again
my colours and verve are in your head
it doesn’t matter to me if it’s misread
all that matters is it’s here and now
can be seen through the city somehow
my statement for these dark red ages
a moment in time decrying lack of wages
we are all worth so much more than this
we all deserve more money and bliss
we give our time and energy and for what?
we deny our real selves clear-cut
our lives should be written in the stars
but they’re not: all we got is cars and scars
our future marred and written on the wall
with my tag I bow, for my final curtain call.
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