Here's the problem with arts journalism: there's just not enough art in it. Talented writers can paint their own pictures in the minds of their readers, explaining the shapes, colors, and deeper meanings and intentions of an artist's work. But when it comes to the big picture -- for example, describing the ever-shifting, dynamic mosaic of murals on the walls of Wynwood -- a block of text and a few photos just won't cut it.
That's why, for this week's New Times feature story "Paint the Walls," which explores the history, artists, and current issues in Wynwood's graffiti culture, we've taken an innovative, visual approach: an interactive website that shows you videos, photos, and more as you read the story.
As you read about Wynwood's iconic Everlasting Bass mural, you can pause to watch a video of artists Trek6 and Chor Boogie updating the boombox. You can explore the work of local artist Krave, aka Daniel Fila, in the margins alongside the text. And you can watch as a group of women artists take over Wynwood's walls while you read about Kazilla, an "urban nomad" artist who experiences color in everything -- even sounds and smells.
Wynwood is, of course, one of Miami's most visually stimulating neighborhoods, so it's only appropriate that our story about it uses one of New Times' most visually stimulating formats ever. Check it out, and let us know what you think.
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