Local graffiti artists painted the town red – among countless other colors– this past Saturday at the first ever Can Jam Graffiti Art Battle. The parking lot of Bradenton’s Keaton’s Office and Art Supply buzzed with excitement while the community watched eight of the area’s most talented graffiti artists compete for a cash prize. Spectators crowded around the artists while they each decorated their own 8 ft. x 6 ft. panel during the four-hour event. Onlookers were encouraged to buy tickets during the free community event to vote to determine which of the eight artists would go home with the Can Jam honor.

Though the competition was fierce, a laid back spirit of community hung in the air. As the artists created their masterpieces, guests were also encouraged to make a mark of their own alongside the competing artists on the community wall. Local musician Kyle Shell, of the band The Tangled Mangoes, serenaded the crowds with his tropical guitar stylings, while guests names were called over the speakers to announce their art supply raffle winnings.

A crowd of children surrounded the custom shirt-making table where there were countless stencils and shirts
to choose from. As kids buzzed around, many older guests took a break from the fun to enjoy the local fare of Tijuana
Flats tacos and Red Bull energy drinks.

While Can Jam was only a one-day event, the marks made by visitors and artists alike will remain on the community wall in the Keeton’s parking lot until the next Can Jam.

To take a peek at the community
wall visit Keeton’s Office and Art Supply,
at 817 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, FL.,
34205.