Where Is The Wall Of Gum? Chewing Gum Graffiti Around The World
The infamous gum wall – a bizarre yet captivating tourist attraction – no longer exists in its original location. Today, gum walls have spontaneously emerged in other locations around the globe, reflecting this odd cultural phenomenon.
The Gum Wall: A Sticky History
The concept of a “gum wall” – a wall covered in used chewing gum – seems repulsive to some, but strangely fascinating to many. These walls aren’t planned or sanctioned; they arise organically through a collective, almost unconscious act of public participation. The allure is undeniable: the vibrant colors, the sticky texture, the sheer absurdity of it all contribute to a unique, albeit unconventional, artistic expression.
The Original: Post Alley, Seattle, Washington
The most famous gum wall was located in Post Alley, Seattle, Washington. Its origins can be traced back to the early 1990s, when patrons of the Market Theater started sticking their gum to the wall. It started as a small act of rebellion, a way to avoid paying fines for gum disposal. But the practice quickly escalated, transforming the alley into a monumental tapestry of chewed gum.
- The Scale: By the time it was cleared in 2015, the Post Alley Gum Wall was estimated to be 50 feet long and 15 feet high.
- The Variety: The wall boasted a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and even rudimentary artworks formed from gum.
- The Tourists: It became a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who added their own contributions to the sticky canvas.
However, the constant accumulation of gum posed significant hygiene and structural concerns. In November 2015, the city undertook a massive cleaning operation to remove all the gum. While disappointing to some, the decision was deemed necessary to preserve the structural integrity of the brick walls and address public health concerns. While the wall was cleaned down to bare brick, the phenomenon quickly resumed, though never reaching its former grandeur.
Beyond Seattle: Gum Walls Around the World
The Seattle gum wall was not unique; it was simply the most famous. Similar walls, though often smaller in scale, have popped up in other locations, inspired by the Seattle phenomenon or born independently from similar impulses.
- San Luis Obispo, California: Bubblegum Alley is another famous gum wall in the United States. While smaller than the original Seattle wall, it boasts a history spanning decades.
- Denmark: Locations exist in several Danish cities, including Copenhagen and Aarhus. These tend to be smaller and more transient.
- Other Locations: Smaller, localized gum walls have been reported in various countries, often near theaters, schools, or other gathering places. These are usually less formalized and more susceptible to removal.
The Appeal: Why Do People Contribute?
The act of sticking gum on a wall might seem illogical, but several factors contribute to its appeal.
- Collective Art: It’s a form of collective, unplanned art. Everyone contributes, creating a constantly evolving and unpredictable artwork.
- Rebellion: There’s a sense of rebellion and breaking social norms associated with the act.
- Memorabilia: Some people attach significance to their gum, marking a visit or commemorating an event.
- Photography: The vibrant and bizarre nature of the walls makes for compelling photographs.
The Downside: Environmental and Health Concerns
Despite its appeal, gum walls pose significant environmental and health risks.
- Environmental Impact: Chewing gum is a synthetic polymer that doesn’t biodegrade easily. This contributes to litter and pollution.
- Hygiene Concerns: The accumulation of chewed gum creates a breeding ground for bacteria and other pathogens.
- Maintenance Costs: Cleaning gum walls is expensive and time-consuming.
| Concern | Description |
|---|---|
| Environmental | Non-biodegradable material contributes to pollution. |
| Hygiene | Breeding ground for bacteria and potential health hazards. |
| Structural Damage | Gum can damage brick and other building materials over time. |
| Aesthetic Concerns | Some consider gum walls unsightly and unhygienic. |
| Maintenance | Removal and cleaning are costly and require specialized equipment. |
The Future: Can Gum Walls Be Sustainable?
The future of gum walls is uncertain. While their appeal is undeniable, their environmental and health concerns pose significant challenges. Perhaps more sustainable alternatives, such as designated areas for gum art using biodegradable materials, could offer a compromise. Until then, these sticky monuments to chewing gum will likely continue to appear and disappear around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is the largest gum wall today?
While the original Seattle gum wall was the largest, its cleaning and subsequent regrowth make it difficult to compare to others. Bubblegum Alley in San Luis Obispo is often cited as another major contender, though its exact size fluctuates as gum is added and occasionally removed. There isn’t an officially recognized “largest” gum wall.
Is it legal to stick gum on a gum wall?
The legality of sticking gum on a gum wall varies depending on the location and local regulations. In some areas, it might be tolerated or even encouraged, while in others it could be considered vandalism and subject to fines. It is always best to check local regulations before adding gum to a wall.
How often are gum walls cleaned?
The frequency of cleaning gum walls depends on the location and the resources available. Some gum walls, like the one in Seattle, have undergone major cleaning operations. Others may be cleaned periodically, or not at all. Local authorities typically make the decision based on hygiene concerns and the aesthetic impact of the wall.
What is the environmental impact of chewing gum?
Chewing gum is primarily composed of synthetic rubber and resins, making it non-biodegradable. This means it can persist in the environment for many years, contributing to litter and pollution. Some companies are developing biodegradable alternatives, but these are not yet widely available.
What are some alternatives to gum walls?
Instead of sticking gum directly on walls, more sustainable and hygienic alternatives could include designated gum art areas where people can create temporary installations using biodegradable materials or reusable surfaces that can be cleaned regularly. This would allow people to express their creativity without causing long-term environmental damage.
How can I remove gum from surfaces effectively?
Removing gum can be challenging. Freezing it with ice or using commercial gum removal products are common methods. For larger areas, power washing with hot water and specialized detergents might be necessary. Prevention is the best approach: dispose of gum properly in designated bins.
Are gum walls safe for children?
Gum walls, especially those heavily laden with gum, can pose hygiene risks, particularly for children who might be tempted to touch or even taste the gum. Supervision is recommended when visiting gum walls with children, and hand washing afterward is essential.
What kind of gum is most commonly used on gum walls?
All types of chewing gum find their way onto gum walls, ranging from bubble gum to sugar-free varieties. The determining factor is usually simply what the person happens to be chewing at the time.
Do artists ever use gum walls as a medium?
While gum walls are primarily unintentional art, some artists have incorporated them into their work. They might use the gum as a base for other materials, or simply document the walls through photography and video. This practice acknowledges the cultural significance of the gum wall phenomenon.
What is the future of chewing gum?
The chewing gum industry is evolving, with a growing emphasis on sustainability. This includes developing biodegradable gum, reducing packaging waste, and promoting responsible disposal practices. The goal is to minimize the environmental impact of chewing gum.
Why was the Seattle gum wall cleaned in the first place?
The Seattle gum wall was cleaned primarily due to concerns about hygiene and structural damage to the historic brick buildings in Post Alley. The accumulated gum had become a breeding ground for bacteria and was weakening the walls over time.
Are there any official gum wall museums?
As of now, there are no official gum wall museums. The existing gum walls are primarily organic and unsanctioned art installations. However, the idea of a museum showcasing the history and evolution of gum walls, along with the social and cultural aspects, is an interesting concept.