Update, 2\/22:<\/b> In the original piece, I left out the first part of the artist’s name. It’s Ryan Henry Ward, not Henry Ward. Second. Relying on previously published information, I wrote that his ambition was to paint 50 murals. He claims, to date, to have painted 70, for businesses that pay for the privilege. Even if I loved his work, 50 is too many. Seventy is insane. Public art is a little like books in a library. I don’t want to read about chemistry but don’t resent the chemistry texts housed there. If the public library was overwhelmed with chemistry books, I’d object. How much more objectionable is Ward’s work. It’s a mass of chemistry books I am unable to avoid. Bring back blank walls and let them erode in the rain!<\/i><\/p>\n
Ryan Henry Ward<\/a> wants to paint 50<\/strike> endless murals in public spaces in Seattle. Because so many people are encouraging him, he could well succeed.<\/p>\n
![\"henrywardmural.jpg\"](\"http:\/\/www.artsjournal.com\/anotherbb\/henrywardmural.jpg\")
One mural would be tolerable. Even two. The number he has done is an outrage. If I wanted to live inside a sentimental children’s book, I’d be well on my way to starkers, and I’d ask him to paint the walls of my padded cell. Ward is whimsical. A sense of whimsy is fine in toddlers, but by the age of reason, children are ready to move on to more substantial fare. <\/p>\n