Marvelous Murals – Vancouver’s Answer to Dreary Days

November 24, 2016

3 min read

Colorful mural on a brick wall featuring a scoreboard with numbers 1 and 0, a burger, and abstract shapes.

Looking for the perfect cure for the rainy day blues? Look no further than historic Mount Pleasant. Known for heritage buildings, funky shops, cafes and eateries, Mount Pleasant is also home to a thriving art scene. Recently, while strolling the bustling streets of the Mount Pleasant area, I was struck by the size and scope of the outdoor murals. Imagine, talented artists turning blank building walls into spectacular art installations. Accessible, public art, many pieces thought provoking and some works simply pure, clean fun.

Mural of diverse children playing and celebrating with a quote by Margaret Mead about thoughtful citizens changing the world.

Last August, as part of the Vancouver Mural Festival, 56 artists shared their passion and talents to create 53 news murals in Mount Pleasant, Strathcona and False Creek Flats. As I meandered along, I had to admire the vision of the mural project. Outdoor walls had become canvasses, adding to the vibrancy and the fabric of our city, a true transformation. I stopped at every mural I passed, pausing to reflect and to admire the work. I pondered the thought provoking messages and my imagination was stirred.

Colorful geometric mural with purple circles, orange rope, and green leaves on a building wall with windows.

Despite the rain, I felt energized and inspired by these large scale, breathtaking and powerful pieces. Almost every time I rounded a corner, I was greeted by the unexpected. Artist stories, styles, and messages portrayed via bright colours and geometric patterns. A visual smorgasbord on display for all to enjoy. Certainly, a rainy day walk worth taking!

Colorful mural of a green face with four eyes and raised hands on a striped black and white building wall.

Aspiring artists take note! 2017 Artist Submissions are now open.

Mural of a person with long hair surrounded by flowers and abstract yellow lines on a building wall, next to a black and white patterned mural.

Getting There:

The heart of Mount Pleasant is an area in the city where Broadway, Kingsway and Main Street meet. Currently, the Mount Pleasant Business Improvement Association, Vancouver Mural Festival and Art Seen Vancouver are offering mural tours every Saturday. Register for a tour and learn more about the artists’ vision and creative process, and best of all, proceeds from tour ticket sales will directly support the festival

Grab your walking shoes and set out on a day of discovery. While in the Mount Pleasant area, be sure to check out this self-guided walking tour.