Many cities around the world are known for their colourful displays of graffiti. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but this gritty form of urban art gives a fascinating insight into the ethos of a city. Not only does street art give a destination a unique aesthetic, it also acts as a looking glass, reflecting the popular culture, politics and topical social issues prescient in modern society. So in no particular order, here are six of the best city breaks for lovers of street art and all things graffiti.
Lisbon
Alexandre Farto is one of the Portuguese capital’s most lauded graffiti artists, known internationally as Vhils. He constantly pushes the boundaries and comes up with new techniques for his art. He is currently involved in a contemporary art initiative with international artists to transform urban areas with art work that blends in with the environment, appearing as if it has been there for centuries rather than years.
The Lisbon waterfront is covered in graffiti that exemplifies what the city has to offer in terms of street art. Wander in the direction of the 25 de abril bridge to get a closer look.
Berlin
Berlin’s legendary East Wall Gallery covers half a mile of the old Berlin wall that snakes through the city. Covered in colourful murals that signify freedom, diversity and hope, it also stands as a stark reminder of Germany’s turbulent history.
Paris
Paris’s prolific street art scene began in the slums and soon spread to other parts of the city to leave an indelible mark on its façade. Now the areas of Belleville, Oberkampf and Menilmontant are considered to be at the heart of this transient movement – where artists such as Space Invader, C215 and the aptly named Jef Aerosol showcase their talents.
Manchester
The northern quarter of Manchester is a hot zone for street art, with many pieces commissioned by the council, local businesses and even big brand names. Sponsored by a local art supply shop, Stevenson Square is transformed by graffiti artists every three months, while a former warehouse on Newton street has a commissioned homage to clothing giant Converse.
London
With so many talented artists gathered in this great metropolis, the scope for creativity is endless. Next to Waterloo station, an authorised art tunnel is testament to the great street art movement happening here. Culturally rich Brick Lane in East London is also famous for the creations left behind by outdoor art enthusiasts – the most famous being the likes of Banksy and Ben Eine. Brick Lane graffiti has even made it into several music videos including ‘All these things that I’ve done’ by the Killers.
New York
New York is where it all began. Graffiti artists worth their salt have all gone on ‘spraycation’ to leave their mark on the Big Apple. Head to hipster havens like Greenpoint or Bushwicke to see mad murals and quirky designs.
As street art is becoming more mainstream – supported by urban planners, commerce and the arts – there’s been a considerable rise in graffiti sight-seeing and street art tours. Plan your city break to take a stylish selfie with some of these famous murals. In the ever-shifting world of urban art, tomorrow they could be gone forever.
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