Downtown El Paso is bathed in colorful art thanks to local artists

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) - Graffiti artists made the walls at South Cotton and East 3rd Avenue come alive with color.

The Borderland Jam is an annual event in the Segundo Barrio with the unique art the reason it has gained recognition over the past several years.

Artists from all over the region and world participate. Some update the art already on warehouse walls or create new artwork.

“I’m trying to carry on the culture of Chicano calligraphy in my own type of work, not exactly in that way but it’s in there. It’s a seed that blossoms into a flower that became what I do,” said Joseph Sullivan a graffiti artist from Albuquerque.

He says seeing all the art and the artists continue to inspire his work.

Organizers say it is a way for artists in the community to work together and share their creativity and beautify the area.

“We love this because this is not common. It’s getting more common, especially in larger cities. There was always a crushing influence on suppressing the voices of youth,” Sullivan added.

The artwork will remain on the walls until next year's event.