Raleigh's downtown streeteries, those charming dining spots crafted from former parking spaces, not only enhance the alfresco dining experience but now double as public art canvases thanks to local talents. It was just last Friday, that the latest mural joined the streetscape outside the notable Raleigh Times. With this installation, patrons can feast their eyes on the new artwork while enjoying outdoor dining.
According to the City of Raleigh, part of a city-backed initiative, the project to beautify these dining areas started last spring, and to fully make use of one, local artists have been encouraged to showcase their creativity across the downtown area. These works have come to life thanks to funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Though those specific funds have now dried up, businesses still eager to convert a parking spot into a streetery can continue to do so out of pocket.
The spotlight on Raleigh's storytelling heritage is visible through Sean Kernick's mural at the Raleigh Times location. Capturing over a century's worth of tales, Kernick's artwork is a colorful nod to the site's journalistic legacy. That's according to a recent statement he made, where Kernick expressed his intent “to pay homage to the unique stories and the storytellers” of Raleigh's vibrant past. His signature can also be found on other local murals, such as the Lavelle Moton piece on Salisbury Street and an expansive work along Capital Boulevard, as per the City of Raleigh.
The city's transformative program stipulates that any business wishing to add to the streetscape via a new streetery must navigate the permit process. This is clearly outlined on the Permit and Development Portal, with submissions subject to comprehensive review by city departments. The standards, for both construction and design, are detailed within the city's Outdoor Seating Guide, ensuring that any new addition is up to snuff in terms of aesthetics and compliance.
