This story might seem more like a social media prank or the plot of an upcoming “Black Mirror” episode, but by all accounts, this is real. A Los Angeles mural requires anyone who wants to snap selfies to be a certified social media influencer. In other words, you need a blue check mark beside your name or more than 20,000 followers.
News of the mural spread across social media when Vice writer Justin Caffier posted a photo of himself and the mural this week. The mural hides behind a tented apparatus while a security guard stands by in case any regulars try to sneak a photo.
There’s a new security-guarded mural in LA that only allows influencers and verifieds to take pics in front of it. pic.twitter.com/PDlLJ9C0DI
— justin caffier (@JustinCaffier) June 25, 2018
Lotta mural question DMs so lemme just share what I know here:
– address is 7753 Melrose Ave.
– it’s up from now until 6/27 (tho I highly doubt it will remain unvandalized for that long)
– it’s 20K followers OR a verified check to enter
– your reggo friends gotta wait outside— justin caffier (@JustinCaffier) June 25, 2018
The photo Caffier posted included a sign with legible instructions. They read:
PRIVATE MURAL
FOR VERIFIED INFLUENCERS AND PEOPLE WITH OVER 20,000 FOLLOWERS ONLY
WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE.
SEE SECURITY STAFF FOR PROOF AND ACCESS
It appears the mural is run by an organization called “Like and Subscribe.” Users directed their vitriol toward the “Like and Subscribe” account, calling them out for their silly exclusivity. Some also joked that this is either a “Nathan for You” prank, reminiscent of his “Dumb Starbucks” gag in 2014, or the beginning of a “Black Mirror” episode. The users behind “Like and Subscribe” responded to the criticism aimed their direction on Twitter.
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“Disappointing to see a few verified influencers getting upset about the mural. There is no reason to be mad! We created it specifically for you. Instead of the negativity, come down and take a great photo!” read the tweet.
Today we are so excited to debut the beautiful mural we curated in the heart of the LA art scene. Come down and check it out. Unfortunately the mural is currently for verified influencers and people with over 20k followers only. However it may be public soon. Stay tuned! pic.twitter.com/CRIzqaAhX8
— Like and Subscribe (@likeandsub) June 25, 2018
Disappointing to see a few verified influencers getting upset about the mural. There is no reason to be mad! We created it specifically for you. Instead of the negativity, come down and take a great photo!
— Like and Subscribe (@likeandsub) June 25, 2018
This kind of stunt couldn’t exist anywhere besides Los Angeles. After all, it’s a city that doubles as a thirst trap for social media influencers to have their lives appear more interesting and glamorous than they are. Los Angeles Magazine even has an entire list of all the popular places where social media stars pose for the Gram. Whether you think it’s an elaborate troll job or emblematic of deeper deficiencies within our society, it’s such an L.A. thing. Maybe Bret Easton Ellis will write about it in his next book.
