Started on the outside of an abandoned house in New Orleans, the “Before I Die” project has since spread around the world to 73 countries in 36 languages. Now, if for only a month, it has arrived in Ferndale.
The “Before I Die” boards were recently installed on the fence separating the rail yard and Griffintown Park at the end of the park closest to Washington Street. The intention, according to the project’s website, is to
invite people to reflect on their lives and share their personal aspirations in public space.
The project started back in 2011 when artist Candy Chang created an interactive wall on an abandoned house in her New Orleans neighborhood “to create an anonymous place to help restore perspective and share intimately with neighbors while remaining an introvert.” On a chalkboard surface she stenciled several times over “Before I die I want to _______.” providing a blank space for people to fill in.
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Click for more informationFerndale’s implementation of the project was accomplished by the City of Ferndale’s Parks, Recreation and Trails Advisory Board. Ferndale City Councilmember Rebecca Xczar and her husband Kyle donated labor and materials needed.
According to an announcement from the City,
The Parks Board aims to inspire people to visit and enjoy our city parks and joining this international effort is a first step.
This is a temporary art installation expected to stay up through the month of October. According to City of Ferndale staff, “If this goes well, there could be other temporary installations at that location.”
