Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWK0qt7tR4k&list=PLOQvdw7d0cd9RZZkd2lZy2hmrnJv-cfLI&index=45
Evan: We're back here on the Truth I Have Five Four podcast, special Hollywood Showcase Series, episode number three, with Downtown Hollywood Mural Project project manager and curator, Bill Weisberg, here in front of one of the most notable murals. The project that you're about to find out a little bit more about if you didn't know that before. We started a bit...
Jill Weisberg: Gara, kind of live from, in an effort to make this a place to live and not just a better place to vacation. The point of the podcast is exactly that, you may see people like her that are doing incredible things in the community. There's quite a bunch of great things going on here in Downtown Hollywood and on the beaches as well. This podcast is sponsored by the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency, working very hard as well to cultivate culture and community in Hollywood, create more activities, more events, more placemaking, more things to do. If you want to find out more, go to FloridasHollywood.org for opportunities to join us this weekend. Let me tell you about what we’re about to talk about, but without much further ado, why don’t you tell us a little about yourself?
Jill Weisberg: So, my name is Bill Weisberg. I've been working with the CRA since 2012, and it’s been very, very exciting to work with such a great community. It's really exciting to do something that adds to the community.
Evan: Amen. How did you get involved with the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project?
Jill Weisberg: It's really funny. So, when I was a small child, I have to credit my mom. She used to take me to the art and culture center, which was by the beach at the time. So, she would take me there for painting. I've been painting since I was about five or six years old. I've been painting my whole entire life. I went to school for graphic design but always found my way back to murals in the last couple of years. I’ve done murals in the past and always found a way to stay connected with art. My mom took me to museums and all types of cultural events.
Evan: You have been very much diversifying your life. There's probably nobody more qualified in the county to run this world-class mural project. For those who are not familiar, tell us a little bit about the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project.
Jill Weisberg: What I did here is I work with private property owners and businesses to curate public art projects. For example, Penny Sharp, a well-known artist in the pop art community, has had a very robust art practice since the late '80s. He’s created murals internationally. This is one of the gorgeous murals he did for us. It’s adorable, and I love all the different facial expressions, the range of emotions that the characters have. My favorite part is the characters that are kind of flying off of a picture frame. It brings to life how much creativity can be expressed, even though it's still only paint on a wall. That's what public art does—it makes art accessible. You don’t have to walk into a gallery or go into a museum; this work is accessible by everyone, and it's very interactive. People come down just to see the murals, and it’s wonderful.
Evan: It’s quite impressive! You have names like The London Police and Don Rimx involved. Who are some other notable artists who have contributed to this project?
Bill Weisberg: We have so many artists, about 25 different artists. Some of the ones you mentioned, like Don Rimx, are among the local and international talents we’ve brought in. People love seeing the process taking place—watching the artists paint is one thing, but to see what goes into it is another. We do a great job curating this project. There's also a third Saturday walking tour. It starts at 6:00 p.m. on Harrison Street and 20th Avenue. I take everyone on a walking tour; we don't hit all the murals but cover a variety. I switch it up every month to give people a new experience. It's a free tour, so you can come every month and see something different.
Evan: How sweet! Maybe tell us a bit about the concept or why certain murals were chosen?
Jill Weisberg: Sure! I talk about the artists, their backgrounds, how the murals came about, and the concepts behind them. The tour is super fun, and people seem to enjoy it. I’ve been doing it for quite a while, and there are always surprise questions from people, which I welcome. I love the interactivity; it tells me that people are paying attention.
Evan: There is a guided tour, but there's also a self-guided tour, right?
Jill Weisberg: Yes, there’s a map of all the murals with photos and locations available on the website, FloridasHollywood.org. You can walk around and discover the murals on your own. If you take photos, we ask that you tag the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project using the hashtag #HMP or tag Florida's Hollywood. We love sharing the photos people take; it’s one of my favorite parts of the project, the interactivity with everyone.
Evan: What are some of the benefits of having a world-class mural project like this in the city?
Jill Weisberg: Many people don't know this, but Downtown Hollywood is the only historical business district in Florida. The murals add life, color, charm, and vibrancy to Downtown Hollywood. It has put us on the map. As a result, we’ve had national, international, and local press coverage. The murals bring art, music, and a sense of culture to the community. They also help in placemaking, making Hollywood a better place to live and visit.
Evan: What other events can people look forward to?
Jill Weisberg: There’s so much that goes on during the Art Walk. It’s a great place to find last-minute gifts, especially handmade goods. The Art Walk is one of the longest-running in the area, celebrating 15 years. It helps bring people together, creating a sense of community and supporting local artists and entrepreneurs. The City of Hollywood and the CRA have done an amazing job in supporting these events, bringing in bands, setting up stages, and shutting down streets. There’s something for everyone, from live music to unique art displays.
Evan: Where can people find more information about Florida’s Hollywood and the mural project on social media?
Jill Weisberg: If you're looking for Florida's Hollywood, they have a Facebook page under that name. For the Hollywood Mural Project, you can find them on social media platforms as well. Remember to tag your photos with #HMP or #FloridasHollywood to get featured!
Evan: I’m Evan Snow. You can find me at evansnow13 or choose954 on social media. We look forward to seeing you this Saturday from 6 PM-11PM. In beautiful Downtown Hollywood at the new information tent on Harrison and 20th, and we look forward to seeing you for the last hour walk of the year. Cheers, and thanks so much!
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