After you get over the initial shock and take a close look, you soon realize that these European locations are not a lot different from a typical “Old Town” street-scape. Three story facades with shops opening onto sidewalks form interesting urban architecture no matter where you are. Adding attention grabbing street art completely changes not only the vibe, but more importantly the market appeal; and market appeal there is, in abundance.
Leading, of course, to the question; is this art or a sign, and what constitutes a sign? Surely the “Alexandria Board of Architectural Review” would not issue a “Certificate of Appropriateness” for such an installation. Is one required, though, if the only alteration is to paint a building? My research says this is legal, my experience says not. In lieu of further investigation just, think LA Ink.