Art in the Alleys
If you think street art is just about slapping some paint on a wall and calling it a day, then you probably haven’t taken a stroll downtown in a while. This city isn’t just dipping its toes into the world of murals—it’s cannonballing into the deep end, and the splash is spectacular. Cincinnati has been named the top city for street art in the USA Today 2024 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, and it’s easy to see why. This place is a living gallery, where history, culture, and raw artistic talent collide on every corner.
Cincinnati isn’t just a city with murals; it’s a city defined by them. With over 300 murals adorning its streets, Cincinnati’s public art scene has become an integral part of its identity. These aren’t just pretty pictures; they’re powerful narratives that speak to the soul of the city. The Over-the-Rhine neighborhood alone boasts 55 murals, each one a visual love letter to the city’s rich history and diverse culture.
But here’s the kicker: these murals aren’t just for show. They’ve had a measurable impact on the city. Research from the University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) found that neighborhoods with murals, like Over-the-Rhine, saw increased foot traffic and a decrease in crime. That’s right—art is literally making the streets safer.
Let’s cut to the chase. If you’re in Cincinnati, there are a few murals you absolutely cannot miss:
Mr. Dynamite (James Brown Mural) - Located at 1437 Main St., this mural is an explosive tribute to the Godfather of Soul himself, James Brown. Designed by Jenny Ustick, it’s a vibrant homage that captures the raw energy Brown brought to the stage.
Cincinnati Toy Heritage - Sitting proudly at 23 W Court St., this mural by Jonathan Queen celebrates the city’s historic toy industry. It’s a nostalgic nod to the past, perfect for anyone who’s ever loved a toy.
Armstrong - Located at 511 Walnut St., this mural by Eduardo Kobra is a striking tribute to Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon. It’s not just a mural; it’s a celestial experience.
Fiona and Bibi at the Cincinnati Zoo - At 910 Race St., you’ll find a mural that’s as playful as it is iconic, featuring the beloved hippos from the Cincinnati Zoo. Lucie Rice’s design is a must-see for animal lovers.
Little Nemo in Slumberland - A whimsical creation by Winsor McCay at 917 Main St., this mural brings the classic comic strip to life. It’s like stepping into a dream, one brushstroke at a time.
These murals aren’t just art—they’re part of a bigger, global conversation. Thanks to organizations like ArtWorks, Cincinnati is on the map as a serious player in the art world. ArtWorks has been churning out murals for over a decade, often engaging local youth through their Summer Apprentice Program. This isn’t just about beautifying the city; it’s about creating opportunities for the next generation of artists. Imagine learning how to paint a mural from a professional artist while still in high school. That’s what’s happening here, and it’s nothing short of revolutionary.
The University of Cincinnati’s DAAP is also in on the action. Faculty and students regularly collaborate on mural projects, blending academic expertise with street-level creativity. These murals are as much about education as they are about art, making Cincinnati a hotbed of artistic innovation.
Then there’s BLINK, the festival that turns Cincinnati into the world’s largest immersive art gallery. This isn’t just a local event; it’s a global phenomenon. In 2022, BLINK drew over 2 million people to Cincinnati’s streets, with light installations, murals, and performances that left jaws on the floor. And guess what? It’s coming back in 2024. BLINK isn’t just an event; it’s a cultural juggernaut that solidifies Cincinnati’s role as a leader in the global art scene.
What makes Cincinnati’s murals so special is their deep connection to the local community. These aren’t just paintings; they’re collaborative efforts that involve local artists, students, and residents. The murals reflect the stories, struggles, and triumphs of Cincinnati’s diverse neighborhoods. They’re not just art on walls—they’re the city’s heartbeat, visible for all to see.
So, if you find yourself in Cincinnati, don’t just walk by these murals. Stop, take a closer look, and let them tell you a story. Whether it’s the soulful eyes of James Brown or the playful splash of Fiona the hippo, each mural is a piece of Cincinnati’s soul, painted large for the world to see. And trust me, you don’t want to miss it.