Paint it Up! mural program reduces graffiti through art

_ (via City of Ottawa) _ If there is a wall in your neighbourhood that keeps falling victim to graffiti vandalism, the City of Ottawa and Crime Prevention Ottawa invite you to Paint it Up!

Now in its seventh year, the Paint it Up! program offers funding for outdoor mural art projects that support graffiti prevention, youth empowerment, community safety and the beautification of Ottawa neighbourhoods. The program is one component of the City’s Graffiti Management Strategy.

Since its inception in 2010, the program has involved more than 1200 youth, ranging in age from 12 to 22 years, working on 50 projects across the city supported by an average project grant of $5,000. Outdoor murals have proven to be effective in managing graffiti vandalism, supporting arts and culture, contributing to economic development and providing youth engagement opportunities.

Applications for the 2016 Paint It Up! program are available on the Crime Prevention Ottawa website or by calling 3-1-1. The deadline for applications is April 4 at 4 p.m. Projects must contribute to a clean, safe and beautiful city by engaging neighbourhoods and youth in a constructive learning process to create murals to prevent or deter graffiti.

For more information about the Paint it Up! program and how to apply, applicants are encouraged to register for a public information session by calling 3-1-1 or e-mailing CPO@Ottawa.ca.

Information sessions will be held on the following dates:

Date: Wednesday, March 2 Time: 1:30 to 3 p.m. Place: Colonel By Room, City Hall 110 Laurier Avenue West

Date: Thursday, March 3 Time: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Place: North Gloucester Branch, Ottawa Public Library, Room B 2036 Ogilvie Road