WASHINGTON -- Artist Candy Chang wanted to remember someone she lost. She turned a blighted building in New Orleans into a public art space. Using temporary space, discarded planks, chalk board spray paint and chalk, the artist has created a forum for passersby to jot down their wishes. Think of PostSecret but replace shame with hope.
The Before I Die project started last February in Louisiana. Since then, 12 official boards have popped up in seven countries. The D.C. project follows Brooklyn, Johannesburg, Savannah and Chicago.
Located at the corner of 14th and Q streets NW, the board is a welcome addition to a spot that's been graced with construction. What was once a laundromat and will soon be a restaurant is currently being used as an art space. The D.C. project doesn't appear to be an "official" Chang project, but one made from the creator's toolkit.
As of Monday afternoon, the board was full. Rather than erase entries, participants have begun writing their hopes in chalk on the sidewalk and the adjoining temporary construction site wall.
Click through the slideshow below to see the board.
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'Before I Die' At 14th and Q Streets NW
Full chalkboard.
'Before I Die' At 14th and Q Streets NW
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
We'd all like to publish a magazine.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
Crammed and hopeful board.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
A Captain/Female president would be welcomed.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
Beyonce and death, just one wish apart.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
One participant did write their story.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
More than English was represented.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
In jail?
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
Really? O.K.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
The board got local.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
Mission accomplished.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
More than English was represented.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
We can't live in the future past.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
I think it's easier to be the next Suze Orman.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
Wine?
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
Since the board is full, participants have begun writing on the temporary construction site walls.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
With a full board, participants are using the sidewalk.
'Before I Die' At 14th And Q Streets NW
Mission accomplished.
The Huffington Post | By Brandon Wetherbee Posted: 05/07/2012 8:15 pm Updated: 05/08/2012 9:31 am