Alternative Structures
Located in Houston’s 3rd Ward, the project functions as art itself and provides space for art works. Twenty years old, the project was an artistic response to a neighborhood overrun with crime and violence — several of the homes were purchased and turned into art spaces which now contribute to the beauty and sustainability of the neighborhood. The art work has brought a rich culture, economic development, and social services into the area. Some of the houses were transformed into exhibits and spaces to display art while others are used to house single mothers and children. Another mission of the project is to foster education in the community. This is achieved through free touring, college planning, and mentoring programs throughout the public schools. Project Row Houses demonstrated the power of artwork as it creatively revived an area not only aesthetically, but also socially and economically. However, one downside to the project is that gentrification of the area threatens to push out long time residents who are predominantly African American.
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/art-empowers-preserves-houston-community/
http://sitespecificmag.com/tags/project-row-houses