There’s No Attraction In The World Like This One In St. Louis
By Nikki Rhoades|Published January 14, 2018
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
There is no city in the world quite like St. Louis. Many cultures have influenced the direction of the city, but so, too, have certain subcultures. A group of artists saw an opportunity to beautify the city in a super unique way back in the mid-1990s, and the cityscape has never been the same since.
Located on the St. Louis riverfront, this stunning work of art is perhaps the last thing you would expect to find in this neighborhood. It's right under the I-64 overpass, just south of the Arch.
The wall is nearly two miles long and fifteen feet tall.
A group of friends decided to throw a "graffiti jam" to give graffiti artists the recognition and display that they deserve. It grew in attendance and fame until 2001, when some artists showed up and bombed the city. It went on hiatus until 2012, when some original committee members teamed up with the City of St. Louis to revive the event. Since 2013, Paint Louis has become an annually anticipated event.
Much of the wall tells a story about St. Louisan culture.
As you walk along the wall, you may encounter references to the St. Louis Cardinals or images from the surrounding cityscape. There are no restriction for what can be painted, so you never know what you may encounter.
Some of it includes colorful references to pop culture, with topics ranging from music, to movies, to video games.
Though graffiti has a bad rap, much of it is incredibly elaborate and impressive. Graffiti art has even been displayed in notable galleries over the years, including Fashion Moda in the Bronx and in the Grand Palais exhibition hall in Paris.
This wall offers what is perhaps the most vibrant visual experience in the city.
In 1998, the Guinness Book of World Records recognized this attraction as the longest graffiti mural in the world. That same year, a DVD documentary of the event was released.
The intricacy of much of the art is mind-boggling, and you'll definitely want to experience it in person.
When you spend your entire life in one city, its layout becomes familiar, but this one incredible work of art challenges familiarity by revamping its appearance annually. An incredible collaboration of artists from around the nation transforms the mural year after year… and it’s magical. Have you ever visited this landmark? What was your favorite image? Tell us in the comments below!
This amazing work of art certainly changes the St. Louis landscape! For a look back at St. Louis’ city scene of decades past, check out these vintage photos from the 1950s.
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