Article and Photography by C. Esper
One of the aspects of graffiti that I enjoy is that it’s usually found in long forgotten pockets of space. Cleveland in particular has a plethora of abandoned buildings and decomposing work sites that tell a tale of a once mighty industrial powerhouse that has suffered a turn for the worse. Driving around town, most people just ignore the wreckage of our glorious past, never stopping to get out and poke around a bit. Graffiti has risen up to reuse these spaces as impromptu art galleries, mostly showing their work to the homeless and each other.
The foundation is one of these places. Located just off of West 25th, it’s a mix of concrete floors and walls that mark the spot of a once huge and industrious factory. Long ago abandoned and partially torn down, what’s left is an ever-changing graffiti display and a rough concrete skate spot. Just standing there and taking in the size of this overgrown concrete footprint, it is hard to imagine what this city once was. Graffiti artists long ago adopted this area and I have been going here for years watching the progress of our local street artists. Along with the walls and floor being covered with art, I have found painted tires, doors, and even whole cars. If you are interested at all in this city’s past, do yourself a favor and go explore some of these old warehouses and abandoned places. Not only can you get a palpable sense of our shared history but you may stumble on some great art too.
Now if anyone out there gets the bug and starts to explore, here are a few pointers. Try to ride your bike or walk if you can (so cops don’t find your car and come looking for you). Watch where you step, because there will probably be lots of debris about. Be aware that some of these places serve as other people’s homes, so be respectful if you come across anyone – I stumbled upon a tent city under a bridge recently. Last but not least, document anywhere you see graffiti and email me at x1944x@gmail.com so I can document the spot. Happy hunting!
