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Move over Banksy - meet the new graffiti artist whose stunning murals are transforming drab buildings
Last updated at 00:22am on 19.04.08Most graffiti artists are condemned for painting on public buildings but one New Yorker is being paid thousands to put brush to brick.
And it isn't hard to see why. Artist Eric Grohe has produced spectacular murals on buildings across the U.S. transforming the grey, drab exteriors into vibrant, 3D scenes.
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Make-over: A drab building in Massillon, Ohio, is transformed thanks to Grohe's artwork
Wonder wall:The details in the mural match the original architecture of the building
The 63-year-old has been hard at work on the walls of hospitals, factories, churches and office blocks in states including Ohio, Washington and Florida.
He uses special German paint called keim mineral paint which can last 130 years.
Each mural can take several months with Grohe enjoying every brush stroke. "Every project is a grand adventure, if passion for the work and inspiration are your guides," he said.
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Art for all: Grohe's spectacular paintings will last for 130 years thanks to the special paint he uses
Heroes: Lady Liberty cradles a dying soldier in her arms
Grohe began his career as a illustrator and graphic designer for an architectural firm.
He transferred his skill for drawing buildings to painting on them with his wife, Kathy, helping him by managing the large mural projects.
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After: This painting on a building in Bucyrus, Ohio, depicts how the town would have looked last century
Before: The building in Bucyrus before Grohe got to work and created the image above
He has learnt to work on a huge canvas - some of the murals he has painted reach 3,600ft.
His paintings have been well-received by the residents who live in the towns where he has left his mark.
One said of the building in the main square of Bucyrus, Ohio, which has been turned from a grey, soiled wall into a colourful scene of the town in the last century: "I used to look at this blank lot and this bleak wall and say 'no way.'
"If art is something that takes us back in time, this is a perfect example. You can almost walk into it."
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Imitation falls: This depiction of Niagara Falls on a shopping mall rivals the real thing
Hot work: Grohe's tribute to the steel industry and its relevance to society
With Grohe's reputation fast growing, it might not be long until we see his work on buildings in our towns and cities.
He is currently getting requests for his artwork from all over the world.
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The master at work: Eric Grohe believes art should involve, challenge and inspire the viewer
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Reader views (5)
Here's a sample of the latest views published.
From another Nigel....also in London (Ontario) ...Wow Woooooo
- Nigel, London
I've been painting murals for 20 years now and I am still in awe of Eric's work.
- Dean Tweedy, Sittingbourne, Kent, England
I believe Eric Grohe is one of the best muralists in the world today; his work speaks for itself. Perhaps it will inspire city leaders and planners to enrich their communities with visual daring and taste instead of billboards, concrete and plywood.
- John Rivera-Resto, Cleveland, Ohio USA
Wow!
- Nigel, London
There was a graffiti artist here in the Midlands called Chu, who painted a trompe l'oeil aerosol mural. He claims it was the largest solo aerosol mural in the world...
- David Stokes, west bromwich, UK
