While Downtown receives millions for "world-class cultural programming," Eastside creates authentic art with whatever resources we can scrounge up. Our artists transform abandoned buildings and neglected infrastructure into vibrant expressions of community spirit—proving meaningful art doesn't require corporate backing or municipal approval.

Street Art That Tells Our Stories

Eastside's walls showcase genuine community narratives through large-scale murals depicting neighborhood history, commentary on development projects, and visions of authentic community life. The celebrated "Community Wall" on Industrial Avenue was built entirely through volunteer labor and donated materials, representing the grassroots spirit that defines our borough.

The installation incorporates salvaged LED strips that respond to street activity—transforming discarded infrastructure into interactive art that reflects daily life in our neighborhood.

Independent Gallery Spaces

Our gallery scene flourishes in basements and converted storefronts, showcasing work that examines surveillance, gentrification, and community voice. These intimate spaces foster genuine dialogue about issues affecting our daily lives.

• The Basement: Former recording studio converted into an artist cooperative
• Broken Gallery: Space dedicated to exploring technology's impact on privacy
• The Forgotten Room: Gallery built using repurposed equipment from city infrastructure updates

Public Art

Eastside's street artists have developed innovative approaches to creating work in challenging locations throughout the borough. Many pieces incorporate repurposed infrastructure components, giving new life to materials that would otherwise be discarded during city upgrades.

Several installations have gained recognition throughout Neo-TO, demonstrating how resourceful artists can create impactful work without traditional institutional support.

Community-Driven Projects

Our neighborhood organizes itself around regular creative initiatives. Monthly "Art Walks" and "Community Paint Days" bring residents together to beautify neglected spaces. The "Memorial Garden" installation features wind chimes created from decommissioned city equipment—a thoughtful example of turning obsolete technology into meaningful public art.

Supporting Local Artists

• Attend events: First Friday Art Walks, 6-10 PM, beginning at the Community Gardens
• Purchase directly: Buy from artists themselves rather than through intermediary galleries
• Volunteer: Join community beautification projects and art installations
• Document and share: Help showcase Eastside's creative work through social media and word-of-mouth