Before I Die

I like street art, but I love whimsical street art. I also have a penchant for pieces that make me think. But Candy Chang’s, Before I Die project goes beyond simply making me think. She re-​imagined an abandoned house in her New Orleans neighborhood, and gave her community a public place for reflection and creating. Using plywood and chalkboard paint, and offering chalk to all passersby, she created opportunities for individual expression and community interaction. Brilliant. I am in awe of her vision and its execution.
I heard about the project a little over a year ago, and I knew it grew and spread into other communities, but it certainly wasn’t on my radar as I ventured into Bellevue yesterday. Imagine my DELIGHT when I happened upon the interactive chalkboard on the southwest corner of Bellevue Way & Main Street! My adventure partner and I were driving toward it when I offered the yelling non sequitur, «BEFORE I DIE!». Since I was the driver, I could only imagine the look of curiosity-​and-​fear he threw in my direction. I mean, I wouldn’t want anyone driving me around to scream nonsensical messages of impending death. After I explained what I knew about the project, I parked the car, and we contributed our offerings to the installation.
It’s a simple yet powerful concept. Check out my photos* and think about what you’d add to the project. Then do what you will with your own wishes. I suggest making them come true. :)
*or Cindy Chang’s website for more details: