Whether it's the colors, the size, or the personality, it's hard to ignore the murals popping up all over downtown, Tucson. Whether you're looking for inspiration or your next selfie, here are nine downtown murals you may want to check out.
The program, Ben's Bells has a series of "Be Kind" murals, which symbolize community connection and support through kindness. While there are ten kindness mosaics in Tucson, five of them live downtown.
Broadway Blvd. & N. Stone Ave.
In the neighborhood just south of the Mercado San Agustin marketplace, you can find a mural inspired by Dia De Los Muertos. Created by graffiti artist, Rock Martinez, this mural features legendary Mexican artists, Frida Kahlo and her husband, Diego Rivera.
Near Cushing St. & S. Avienda Convento
But, that's not the only Tucson mural by Martinez. At the intersection of 7th Ave. and 6th St., see the largest mural in Tucson!
Near 7th Ave. & 7th St.
On the west side of The Rialto Theatre, find sportscaster, Bill Walton riding a "jackalope," part jackrabbit, part antelope.
318 E. Congress St.
Along the wall of the 6th Ave. underpass, check out a variety of murals displaying public figures.
N. 7th Ave.
Just blocks away from the underpass, find the artist, Niki Glen's work, which showcases the beauty and nature that Arizona offers.
55 N. 5th Ave.
At the old Scrappy's, check out To-Ree-Nee Wolf Keiser's impressive artwork, which incorporates bright colors.
S. 5th Ave.
And speaking of colors, head to the west side of Cafe 54 for a mural collaboration between three artists.
54 E. Pennington St.
Near the train tracks at 7th Ave and 7th St. is a surreal mural by Joe Pagac. His work can be found all over downtown, Tucson.
7th Ave. & 7th St.
Many of these murals were made possible by the Tucson Arts Brigade, which has sponsored more that 100 temporary and permanent public art projects. Executive Director of the Arts Foundation of Tucson and Southern Arizona, Debi Chess Mabie says, "The Arts Brigade is an excellent example of how arts-based cultural development can serve a community. This organization creates an environment where artists can develop their craft and receive some compensation –to the ultimate benefit of the community. Many of the artists working with Michael Shwartz have a great deal of experience in public art and large scale projects, but some are fairly new. There’s a transference of skill that can’t be taught in typical educational environments. The Arts Brigade is a great apprenticeship program in that regard. That’s why these types of arts learning programs are so important. The murals are a big part of the culture of downtown, a wonderful expression of our values and identity as a community."
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Have a 'Totally Tucson' idea you want to share? Email stephanie.dunlap@kgun9.com
