It doesn’t take a visitor long to notice there’s something unique about the city of Des Moines. They don’t have to look hard to see the walls and alleyways decorated with art. In recent years Des Moines has become notorious for its murals, which have expanded from the downtown area and are now scattered about the city. As interesting as these pieces are, so are the artists who create them. 

 

Brian Bonanno is a local art curator who has instituted many projects in the Des Moines area over the past few years. He first got involved with murals three years ago as part of a community development initiative geared to rejuvenate and engage the community. 

 

He also wanted to reach out to the communities that are sometimes left behind or forgotten about in the discussion for city planning and development. That is why he chose to take part in public art, Bonanno said.