In San Antonio, chalk has become the center of a conflict stirring conversations around public art and vandalism. Joshua "Lakey" Hinson's chalk artwork, symbolizing unity and raising awareness for neglected public spaces, has been met with resistance from civil authorities. The San Antonio Report chronicled Hinson's story, including his recent arrests. The artist was first cited for criminal mischief and later arrested for trespassing while creating his chalk art at city bus stops.
Drawing on the concrete at a bus stop on West Woodlawn Avenue, Hinson was interrupted by VIA Metropolitan Transit police and issued a $100 citation. A mere two days later, his expression of abstract circles at the VIA Centro Plaza Transit Center led to his overnight stay in jail. This incident, caught on camera and shared by Hinson on social media, amplified his critique of public agency failures in maintaining public spaces, specifically those frequented by the homeless—those he knows well due to his own experiences without a home.
As detailed by the San Antonio Report, Hinson's concerted efforts to clean grimy city spots with his temporary art have resulted in reactive maintenance. Centro employees, in a difficult position bound by contracts with city agencies, have expressed support for Hinson's art "where we can be very supportive," as Centro President and CEO Trish DeBerry told the San Antonio Report. However, when private property complaints arise or public safety is concerned, Centro would proceed to power wash the areas.
Previously, Hinson's chalk art arrest in Leon Valley garnered public attention and proceeded to a $16,500 settlement with Hinson. VIA authorities, described in the VIA police report as defacing VIA property, maintain their stance of removing any unauthorized markings. VIA Director of Communications Josh Baugh refrained from commenting on the arrest but asserted the agency's responsibility for maintaining its vicinity "at least weekly," as VIA property is frequently cleaned to remove graffiti and other markings, as conveyed to the San Antonio Report.
Hinson continues his work, marked by his affinity with those experiencing homelessness and advocacy for urban beautification. Despite invitations to a discourse for a more sanctioned display of his work, Hinson maintains his focus is on pushing for change, not notoriety. Supporting this nonconformist in his mission, artist Angela Weddle launched a GoFundMe to secure his release, defending the chalk art as positive engagement and telling the San Antonio Report, "Chalk art is not something we should be frowning upon," and, "He's trying to get people engaged. ... He's doing something positive."
