Graffitti Wall

Photo and Commentary by Joseph Clemenzi

A graffiti wall located at Clemenzi Industrial park symbolizes not one but two important aspects of history in Beverly, Massachusetts. In one view, the graffiti wall represents a mural, an artistic expression of the artist who performed their talent upon the wall. In another view, the wall represents a company and family that has well served its community to its fullest for years upon years. The history and art on the wall are looked upon by daily passers. This wall has represented Beverly’s aesthetic side since 1995.
For almost a decade, Clemenzi industrial park has allowed graffiti artists to impose their work upon the 500-ft. brick wall while supporting it. There are only two simple rules to spray by: nothing ethnically or sexually offensive or "bad" is to appear in their artwork and all spray paint cans, buckets, brushes and materials must be cleaned up after every application of paint. Representing Beverly’s unique side, this artistic flare is a part of a national art movement. Since this wall is constantly being renovated and reinvented, it will always be part of Beverly’s history. The art presented on the wall will change with time. It will always be a symbol of modern art.

In a second look at the graffiti wall, one will see that it is imposed on an industrial park, Clemezi Industrial Park. For almost a century have the owners been directly a part of the economic flow and business productivity of Beverly. The owners of the industrial park were once owners of The Prides Crossing General Store, Clemenzi Construction (1930-1980) and Atlantic Papers (which is now where Clemenzi Industrial Park is located). A big chunk of history in Beverly was due to these people.
While the graffiti wall represents art and the history of Beverly, it helps define Beverly as a community. It says that this community is supportive of new ideas and is ever adapting to the new world of today. While holding a spot in the direct future of Beverly as an example for art to be based off of, the wall has meaning. It hold the story of Beverly for the last century within its walls. This graffiti wall is a definition of an emerging city, Beverly, Massachusetts.