I am a resident of Wonderful Dunedin, one of the only cities in New Zealand lacking a designated, legal space for graffiti and street art. This outlet has been recognized worldwide for its potential to foster artistic expression, promote cultural dialogue, and deter unsolicited graffiti.

In global urban landscapes, legal graffiti/Art walls provide a canvas for young and old to display their talent and energize our shared spaces vibrantly. Cities such as Melbourne, Australia and Bristol, UK have seen benefits from promoting street art, including a drop in illegal graffiti and a boost in tourism (according to the Department of Justice & Regulation, Victoria, 2015, and Bristol City Council reports, 2018 respectively). With Dunedin being know for its street art tours and amazing walls around the city, it's unbelievable that there isn't a space.

Art holds a mirror up to society and can act as a powerful tool in highlighting social issues, fostering public engagement, and providing avenues for community expression. In Dunedin, we stand to benefit from having such a space, not only making our city even more dynamic and colorful but also promoting a sense of inclusivity and artistry.

Providing a legal graffiti wall in Dunedin can create a fusion of traditional values and contemporary urban life, transforming the city into an open art gallery that everyone can take pride in. The time is now to embrace this opportunity and change the landscape of our city.

Please sign this petition to call on the Dunedin City Council to establish a legal graffiti/Art wall and create space for all of us to express, engage, and enjoy our public spaces even more creatively.