Wall Art - Missoula, Montana

“Art is an evolutionary act. The shape of art and its role in society is constantly changing. At no point is art static. There are no rules.” 
― Raymond Salvatore Harmon, BOMB: A Manifesto of Art Terrorism

Short-sighted Prognosis - Missoula, Montana

Ahh, the perceived wisdom strewn amongst rooftops and back alleys! And then there are those glass-half-full brand of folk who insist the future's so bright, as they put on their shades in faith. 
Me, I just find that daily thankfulness for small niceties- say, adequate food and shelter and clothing - puts a whole new spin on things. (Repeat as needed.)

Unintended Canvas - Missoula, Montana

Fences stand with great intent - 
to keep in, 
to keep out, 
to keep safe,
to shield...

And despite focused planning, they may stand, too,
as an unintended canvas 
for those who subscribe to these words from a renowned ponderer: 
“The world is but a canvas to the imagination.”  - Henry David Thoreau

Spools, Missoula, Montana

The patterns of these industrial spools make me think simultaneously of seashells ("...silver bells and cockleshells and pretty maids all in a row...") and train car graffiti.

Mobile Art Installation, Livingston, Montana

Big thank you to Amanda Neufeld, today's guest blogger, for the photo and thoughts (and for being my first gorgeous niece!) Check out Amanda's manicure graffiti or send a question to her at http://amanda-rama.tumblr.com/.

In graffiti tags, there is a language hidden in vibrant colours and cryptic characters, a message for a community. They say, "This is where I belong, see my name and recognize my skill, I deserve to be known."

Even without decrypting the code, a tag can be read. It says there is a passion for self expression in members of every community. No formal training is required to have an eye for form, colour and personal style. It says that vision and drive are in the heart of the unexpected artist.

How splendid are the sides of trains! Impromptu galleries that travel across the country, expanding their collections along the way.

Sparkle Rock, Missoula, Montana

Hmmm.... Sparkle Rock could be the name of a zesty girl band. And they could say they were inspired by this week's zesty graphics on the river trail graffiti mural.
Which lends justification to all manner of wardrobe, makeup, and hair accessory fun! Not to mention instrument decor.
The "Rose Is Rose" mom alter ego could totally head up this project! 
Any other imaginary nominees?

Pillar of Deep Thought, Missoula, Montana

Nothing immortalizes true love quite like carving your initials in stone. Especially if you border your handiwork with a heart. I think it fabulous that, during successive remodeling, the Wilma Theatre left these engravings intact. The stuff of life adds character, whether the canvas is stone block or a strengthened soul.