6 Playful Shadow Art Drawings On Sidewalks By Damon Belanger
Damon Belanger, a San Francisco-based graphic artist with over a decade in the art scene, recently launched a project centered on memory and culture: a series of shadow art installations using acrylic paint across downtown Redwood City. Created in collaboration with the Redwood City Improvement Association and the City of Redwood City, the project brings visual intrigue to public spaces.
Belanger shared with us that his artistic journey began early—he’s been drawing and painting for as long as he can remember. His fascination with art and design paved the way for a career in public art. He noted, “Depending on the size and complexity, a piece can take 2-4 hours to finish, not including preparation like cutting stencils and cleaning. Thankfully, I had a lot of help; we typically finish 2-3 locations per day. It was surprising—and gratifying—how many people wanted to help. Several have called painting meditative, and I completely agree!”
More info: Instagram | DamonBelanger
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Asked about his influences, Belanger explained, “Transformation and the unexpected drive this work. Most people don’t notice shadows unless something unusual makes them stand out, like a tree’s shadow looking like an animal. It’s similar to seeing shapes in clouds—imagining what a shadow could become if transformed. That mindset shaped these pieces: I look at the shadow of an object and wonder what else it could be or express. Sometimes, the environment inspires the shadow’s theme—near Caltrain, I go for rail motifs; by tech firms, clouds or tech symbols.”
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Image Source: DamonBelanger
Belanger’s creative process draws from many sources. “I’m inspired by my surroundings—what I read, hear, and observe. As a musician, music features in my art, from musicians to scenes like musician-robots. Robots interest me because their forms can be so imaginative, with wheels or many arms. My studies of history and culture also spark new concepts.”
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