When You’re on the Hip Strip, Look Up to See an Awesome Mural

Over the past few months, graffiti has been a hot topic in Missoula.

It started last spring when a graffiti message appeared around Missoula in unusual places, like the end of guard rails, or on the side of utility boxes.

Then earlier this summer a message appeared on the sidewalk near the Hip Strip that said "You Are Loved." We asked our audience, "What's your opinion of this graffiti on the sidewalk?" and here's how they responded:

• 62% said "It's vandalism."
• 19% said "I don't mind."
• 14% said "I appreciate it."
• 4% said "I wish it was located somewhere else."

We also asked people about their general attitudes toward graffiti, and they said:

• 60% said "It's vandalism."
• 25% said "I appreciate it but only in sanctioned locations."
• 9% said "I don't mind."
• 6% said "I appreciate it."

For those who appreciate graffiti in sanctioned locations, you'll want to check out this mural on the Hip Strip.

Parker Beckley, a local artist known for his creative and commercial work, shared his progress on a mural he painted on the side of Gild on Higgins.

Unless you're on the roof it's difficult to see the entire mural, so it's awesome that he shared his "Crouching Tiger photo shoot" on Instagram. He provides an interesting description of the process, and his ties to Missoula in his post, saying its "an honor having a piece up next to The Peace" and acknowledging the long and varied artistic history of the building.

If Beckley's style looks familiar you might recognize it from his other mural work around Missoula. He has an impressive portfolio:

• Missoula Butterfly House
• Tres Bonne
• Tap Club
• Florabella
• Shred Monk
• Highlander
• ZACC
• Bridge Pizza
• Saketome
• Michi Ramen
• Wheatgrass Saloon
• (and more)

You can learn more about Beckley and his work at his website parkerbeckley.com.