Jim Stewart watches in dismay as artist Leza Macdonald has to cover up graffiti on the legion’s memorial wall. In middle is artist Sally Franks. Photo by Lyonel Doherty
The Oliver Legion is totally dismayed about a graffiti artist that tagged its veterans’ mural on Station Street.
Legion rep Jim Stewart said someone spray-painted the word “Reaper” on their memorial wall, disrespecting veterans who fought and died in past wars.
“I’m terribly disappointed . . . heartbroken that someone would deface a memorial wall like this.”
Stewart said the wall, previously repainted by artists Leza Macdonald and Sally Franks, is just as important to the legion as the cenotaph.
Macdonald and Franks put many long, hot hours into the repaint project, and to see someone taint their work is very sad.
“I love graffiti in the right place . . . if you want graffiti we will find you a wall. Be respectful of the people of this town,” Macdonald said.
Stewart agreed, saying graffiti can be incredibly beautiful in the right place.
Macdonald looked at the “tag” on the wall and said it was art, noting that she respects the artist. But not in this location.
Stewart put up $100 of his own money as a reward for information leading to the tagger’s arrest and conviction. This reward has now grown to $400, thanks to three other individuals.
Stewart said if the graffiti artist wants to avoid prosecution, he can contact the legion at 498-3868 and “discuss how he can make it right.”
He also invites other businesses that have been tagged by this artist to get in touch with him.
