When you think of magnets, art may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, there is an urban art niche forming through the magnetic work of street artists like Hego. Magnetic street art is created using strong magnets attached to ferrous outdoor places usually within an urban area. Because the street art is hung with magnets, it doesn’t damage the outdoor fixtures it is attached to and it is mobile. The mobility of the art is part of the idea behind Hego’s Magnetic Street Art project. Others can take his work with them and then hang it up somewhere else, creating a perpetually traveling art piece. Other street artists incorporate magnets into their designs too. One artist that also used magnets for her installation is Tasha Lewis, who created magnetic butterflies that could travel around the world even to places that she couldn’t venture. You can make your own magnetic art too:

Supplies

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Steps

  1. Start with your art piece. It should be made of environmentally durable material, so it won’t fall apart or damage easily. Plexiglas and aluminum are a few examples of possible materials, but there are many others that you could use.
  2. Once your artwork is finished, attach magnets to the back of it. You can attach them by using high-quality glue and magnets. Depending on what material you use, you can also screw in countersunk magnets for an extra firm grip on your art piece.
  3. Feel free to write a personalized message on the back and find the ideal location to hang it up!
Although magnetic street art does not deface or harm the buildings and objects to which it is attached, it is always important to have permission before placing your art anywhere. If you or someone you know is using magnets to do creative and innovative things, feel free to share the story with us! To view Hego’s artwork check out the video below and learn more about Lewis’ magnetic butterflies here. #MAGNETICSTREETART from StationaryMovement on Vimeo.

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