Sidewalk artist aims to beautify city

The notion of Belizean art in public places may so far be confined to roundabout sculptures in Belmopan and the western entrance to the old capital–but there is a growing movement afoot, and this morning News 5’s Janelle Chanona nearly tripped over it.

Janelle Chanona, Reporting

Amid the hustle and bustle of downtown Belize City, one man is quietly changing the face of the street.

Kirk Sedassy, Street Artist

“It’s my hobby; it’s my way of expressing my capacity to the public and make the ugly sidewalks look pretty.”

For Kirk Sedassy, the asphalt at his feet is an artistic playground. Long before his efforts were approved by the city council, Sedassy’s brushes were busy creating this patriotic picture.

But art is expensive.

Kirk Sedassy

“I’ve been asking for donations, but if I’m trying to get a two dollars rice and beans, I’m not going to get it you know so I use my little small change.”

“I’m quite happy the public is critical but they are very positive as to “Bwai, I’m glad you’re a black man! You’re Belizean!” and all this you know. It makes me feel good you know. I don’t sell much but there’s a lot of love for me you know.”

To offset costs, Sedassy sells whatever his hands can fashion.

Kirk Sedassy

“I do whatever the public wants as long as its not portraits. You name it, I’ll do it.”

Sedassy says he already has his eye on other parts of the pavement.

Kirk Sedassy

“All the ugly sidewalks on Albert Street, I’m going to do a thing from each country. Each country has a logo, like Guatemala is the Quetzal, the States is the Bald Eagle, Mexico is the Nopal, you know, just doing a thing there, and they’ll like it. Don’t know where the money is going to come from, but I’ll do it.”

Reporting for News 5, I am Janelle Chanona.

Sedassy plans to change the patriotic portrait to suit the season. For example, when December comes, he’s going to start doing a Christmas scene.