Pedestrians. Cyclists. Hipsters and folks meditating. A typical scene in Austin, Texas...
...And then there are the pianos...
"Keep Austin Weird"
If you visit Austin, you'll see this slogan emblazoning t-shirts, bumper stickers, mugs. The slogan was born as Austin struggled with its population boom and all of the attendant challenges. It urged folks to frequent local small businesses. For Austin to keep its unique flavor amidst the blossoming of Starbucks and Gaps. As local landmarks were demolished in favor of new, gleaming downtown condos and office spaces.
Perfectly in character for a city that embraces music, art, and idiosyncrasy, you can find 14 colorfully painted pianos scattered outdoors for the month of April. On pedestrian bridges and tucked around a hike and bike trail. By City Hall. Folks are welcome to play them, and while I took photos, I saw a few people try out some tunes.
Thank you, Austin, for keeping it so very wonderfully, colorfully weird.
Those pianos are amazing.
ReplyDeleteterrific!
ReplyDeleteHow fun! Love that first one! At the end of the month will they all be auctioned off? Or do they already have corporate sponsors and homes planned for them? Love that people were sitting down and using them. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteLax, the pianos will be donated to local schools and community groups. The display was hosted by Art Alliance Austin, an area non-profit. The pianos were created by artist Luke Jerram, who will have a similar installation in Geneva, Switzerland, in June.
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