The distressed murals fronting the Genesee Block are scheduled to get a brush-over this weekend. Weather permitting, the public is invited to assist downtown residents and Buffalo Place at 10 am, this Saturday, May 5th. Paint is being donated by Pyramid Brokerage Company sales agent Bob Biniszkiewicz and downtown developer Roger Trettel (Buehl Block).
Local artist Andrew Youngman has created a new design that will be applied to the sidewalk barriers at the downtown gateway. Youngman graduated in May 2006 with a BAFA degree from Alfred University and is attending Ryerson University in Toronto for a MA in Photographic Preservation and Collections Management Program this coming fall. He is currently working in Buffalo and volunteering at Starlight Gallery and Art Studio on Delaware Avenue. Youngman promises a design that will be attractive and easy to touch-up if vandalized.
Many hope the new murals will be short-lived since redevelopment plans for the prominent block are coming together. Current owner Williard Genrich is currently negotiating a sale with two developers. Each would buy portions of the block and convert the buildings into a mix of uses.
Painting volunteers should meet at the Washington Market located at 461 Ellicott Street. If you arrive late, the Genesee Block is at the corner of Genesee and Oak streets. Call 716.856-3150, or email Jessica Keltz at Buffalo Place, for more information.