We choose to play up the searching/nautical theme. We wanted to really represent what the client does, but at the same time create a memorable impression, and that is where the nautical theme came into play. When I think of searching, I think of exploring, and what better imagery to represent exploring, then the men who set out by sea to find new land.

]]> http://diazmedia.net/?feed=rss2&p=191 0 http://diazmedia.net/?p=589 http://diazmedia.net/?p=589#comments Tue, 25 Aug 2009 02:02:38 +0000 Joseph Diaz http://diazmedia.net/?p=589 Well, it has been a month or so since the Walldogs have left the town of Pontiac, Illinois, leaving behind priceless murals that have enhanced our downtown in expected and also unexpected ways. The citizens of Pontiac are still reaping the rewards. It truly is amazing to see what an impact art can have on a community.

You see, we weren’t all that surprised at the generosity and hard work the artist put forth. We have worked side by side with these great people before and have seen first hand what they are truly capable of, and now Pontiac has witnessed what we already knew. However, we were surprised at how many artist registered and came to our city. So surprised that we had to add an extra project, at the last minute, so that there would be plenty of wall space for everyone.

[slidepress gallery='finished-murals']

We worried that because of the state of the economy, many Walldogs, might take a year off, especially since these artist come from all over the globe, and traveling or shutting down your shop for the week can be difficult during these times. But they didn’t let that stop them, that is just the type of quality people we are talking about. The fact that even during tough times people can come together and do something good, was great to see and be a part of.

What we were also blown away by, was the support from the community. I have seen our town of roughly 12,000 pitch in during a flood or major storm or fight to stop a major employer from closing, but to pitch in by providing homes for the artist to stay in, or bringing in cans and rags for painting was pretty amazing. I don’t think I have ever seen our downtown that alive as I did the weekend the Walldogs came to town. And the fact that it was an art event, made it that much sweeter.

It seemed like the stars aligned and people were in the mood to paint and have a good time.

If you haven’t heard of the Walldogs before, check out this site: http://www.thewalldogs.com/

In the News

Diaz Sign Art and the Walldogs on FOX news
Pontiac family named citizens of year, will lead parade

‘Walldogs’ to make mark in Pontiac

Pontiac Summer Bash an ‘absolute success’

Pontiac brings in thousands for summer event

Walldogs paint Pontiac

Festivals have a bigger role in tough economy

Walldogs already at work in downtown Pontiac

Traveling artists will decorate downtown Pontiac with 18 murals

Murals drawing attraction

City has gone to the Dogs

Walldogs hit the ground running

Walldogs are on the job

Getting ready for the Walldogs

Many may be playing dog catcher

Walldogs Announce Mystery Mural

Franks dedicates mural

Karls Auction brings in approximately $17000

Walldogs leave a mess(age)

Administrator happy with event

60 minutes of fame

Mural has special meaning to Rodinos

Car trouble doesn’t keep dog away

Allen Company mural Walldog happy to be in Pontiac

Community Pantry plans donation day

Diazes receive multiple honors

The goal was simple at first: to create the worlds largest Route 66 shield. Our local Route 66 museum officials and the head of tourism commissioned us to design and paint this monster. The Mother Road is already a big tourist attraction and we are fortunate to be on it, in between Chicago and St. Louis, so it was only natural that our town capitalize on this and learn from other communities and their successes with Route 66 attractions.

Shortly after the mural was completed, the city quickly paved the area in front of the mural with actual Route 66 road bricks. The mural now acts as a photo opportunity. Most of the time people park their cars in front of the wall for a photo. The mother road is a great way for foreign tourist to really experience the heart of our country… to see cities, farms, small towns, national parks, and other scenery. It is the best way to truly have the American Experience. And when they return home with photos to show their friends and family, you can almost guarantee one might be in front of large Route 66 shield with the name of our town wrapped around it. What better way to let people know that Pontiac is worth the stop.

The head of tourism and the Route 66 museum noticed an increase in activity after the mural was completed and ever since have done a great job of promoting it. The mural was even recognized in one of General Motor’s semi annual publication advertising their Pontiac Line up.