Joshua ReyExploring a city’s street art scene can be a fantastic experience, right? It’s like stumbling upon hidden gems that turn the streets into open-air art galleries; these vibrant murals make for the perfect Instagram backdrops!
But with so many incredible pieces scattered around Vancouver, where do you even begin? This scavenger hunt guide is your ultimate companion for exploring Vancouver’s street art scene.
We found the must-see murals that will have you snapping pics and soaking up the city’s creative spirit. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to discover Vancouver’s artistic side, one unique mural at a time!
- 1. Word to Your Motherland
- 2. Jimi Hendrix
- 3. Graffiti Row
- 4. Instagram Alley
- 5. Welcome to East Van
- 6. Kits Wings
- 7. Rainbow Mural
- 8. The Present is a Gift
- 9. The winds and the waters will always call us home
- 10. Blanketing The City
- 11. Turtle Island by Caleb Ellison-Dysart
- 12. Solidarity Storytelling
- 13. Taking Care of Animals
- 14. Snekwem Lane
- 15. Lift Off
- 16. Two Spirit Rising
- 17. We are croutons floating in cosmic soup
- 18. Dance the Dance My Girl
- 19. Missing Piece
1. Word to Your Motherland
Address: 705 2nd St W, North Vancouver
“Word to Your Motherland” is a collaborative effort that tells a story of cultural connection. The mural was created in North Vancouver by a mix of local and international artists, shelter residents, and youth.
The art style fuses hip-hop with the artists’ backgrounds, reflecting the city’s rich diversity. By bringing together people from various backgrounds, it embodies the spirit of multiculturalism Vancouver is known for.
Pro tip:
Because of its size and location (on the west side of the North Shore Lookout Shelter), getting the whole perspective of the mural might require some stepping back.
2. Jimi Hendrix
Address: 1030 East Cordova, Vancouver
The mural in Vancouver’s Eastside pays tribute to Jimi Hendrix, depicting him strumming his iconic red Fender Stratocaster. Standing at 18 feet tall, it makes a bold statement in the industrial area of East Hastings.
Jimi Hendrix spent part of his childhood making this mural especially significant. It is a powerful reminder of his roots in the city and the lesser-known chapter of his life spent in the historically Black neighborhood of Hogan’s Alley.
Pro tip:
While admiring the mural, take a moment to explore the Eastside. This area is known for its diverse street art scene, with hidden gems tucked away on side streets and alleys.
3. Graffiti Row
Address: 1000 Parker St., Vancouver
Vancouver’s Graffiti Row is a constantly evolving urban art canvas tucked away in a back alley behind Parker Studios. It’s all about the raw energy with walls splashed with bold lettering, intricate designs, and personal and political statements.
The impermanence of the art adds another layer of intrigue. Pieces you see today might be gone tomorrow, replaced by something entirely new, offering a fresh perspective and the chance to discover something truly unique.
Pro tip:
Graffiti Row can be gritty, so stay situationally aware and respectful of private property. Squint to see the intricate details hidden within the bold strokes and try to decipher the messages scrawled across the walls.
4. Instagram Alley
Address: South of West Hastings between Seymour and Granville, Vancouver
Transformed in 2017 by HCMA Architecture + Design, the Instagram Alley boasts a striking combination of bubblegum pink and sunshine yellow that stretches across the walls and pavement.
It’s important to remember that Pink Alley is still functioning, unlike some famous alleys dedicated solely to art. While snapping photos and admiring the unique design, be mindful of the occasional delivery truck or foot traffic.
Pro tip:
Since the alley is narrow, using an ultra-wide lens on your phone or camera will help you capture the entire scene in one frame. Also, try experimenting with different angles—play with perspective by crouching down low or peeking around a corner.
5. Welcome to East Van
Address: 1192 E Hastings Street, Vancouver
The “Welcome to East Van” mural is a vibrant landmark in Vancouver, Canada. It’s a large-scale piece splashed across a brick wall at the intersection of East Hastings Street and Clark Drive, marking the entrance to East Vancouver.
The mural’s style is a playful mix of lettering and imagery. Bold, colorful letters announce “Welcome” while whimsical characters and scenes fill the background, showcasing the neighborhood’s unique character.
Pro tip:
East Van is a walkable neighborhood, but comfortable shoes are recommended. You’ll likely be exploring side streets and alleys in search of street art. Snap a photo in front of the mural, as it’s a classic East Van souvenir.
6. Kits Wings
Address: 898 Burrard St, Vancouver
The Kits Wings in Vancouver is a massive set of wings painted on a 40-foot by 20-foot wall, making it hard to miss. Created by artists Sandy and Steve Pell, the wings are inspired by the majestic bald eagles that call Kits Beach home.
This vibrant mural features a pathway leading right up to the center of the wings, perfect for capturing that Instagram-worthy shot. Standing in the path and gazing upwards, you’ll genuinely feel dwarfed by the wings, like a fledgling eagle about to take flight.
Pro tip:
Since the Kits Wings are on a working alleyway, stay alert for any vehicles entering or exiting. When visiting the Kits Wings, take a moment to pose with your arms outstretched, mimicking the wings and feeling the spirit of the bald eagle.
7. Rainbow Mural
Address: 2321 Granville St., Vancouver
Designed by Ontario-based artist Kristofer Dean and painted by Milan Basic, the Rainbow Mural is a geometric masterpiece that utilizes interlocking diamond shapes in various hues. The result is a mesmerizing display of light and shadow.
The building it adorns is slated for demolition to make way for condos, so catching a glimpse of this beauty requires a bit of spontaneity. This impermanence adds a layer of meaning to the piece, reminding us to cherish fleeting moments of beauty.
Pro tip:
Because this mural faces west, afternoon light will bathe it in a warm glow, amplifying the vibrancy of the colors. Stand back a bit to capture the full scale of the artwork, and let the rainbow colors become the backdrop to your Vancouver adventure.
8. The Present is a Gift
Address: Belvedere Court building
“The Present is a Gift” is a vibrant mural in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood, created by artists Drew Young and Jay Senetchko in 2016. It graces the north walls of the Belvedere Court, offering a visual story about the richness of the community.
The centerpiece features portraits of two residents: Paisley Nahanee, a Coast Salish woman with deep roots in the community, and Dr. Bob Butler, a longtime optometrist who served the area for over 60 years.
Pro tip:
Since “The Present is a Gift” is part of a more extensive public art collection in Vancouver, consider exploring the area on foot or by bike. This allows you to discover hidden gems and appreciate Mount Pleasant’s artistic energy.
9. The winds and the waters will always call us home
Address: 999 Canada Place, Vancouver
“The winds and the waters will always call us home” is a large-scale vinyl mural created by artist Ocean Hyland. It graces the exterior of Canada Place in downtown Vancouver.
The mural is a stunning tribute to the deep connection between the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest and the ocean. Geometric shapes and forms are a distinctive feature of Coast Salish art, reflecting the region’s deep cultural heritage.
Pro tip:
Snap a photo before the mural, but remember, the true beauty lies in its message of connection and respect for the ocean. So, take a moment to ponder the symbolism and appreciate the cultural significance of this artwork.
10. Blanketing The City
Address: Kingsway and East 12th Avenue, Vancouver
Blanketing The City is a monumental mural by Debra Sparrow, a Musqueam artist, and Gabriel Hall. It graces the side of the Biltmore Hotel, making it the most significant public art piece created by a Musqueam, Squamish, or Tsleilwaututh artist.
It’s a visual dive into the heart of Vancouver’s coastal ecosystem. The artwork starts with shapes reminiscent of ice-age fjords at the top, then transitions into a vibrant spectrum of colors representing the shallow waters teeming with life.
Pro tip:
Since the mural is so large, take a step back to appreciate the full effect. Look for vantage points across the street or even consider viewing it from further away to grasp the complete picture.
11. Turtle Island by Caleb Ellison-Dysart
Address: 1295 Frances Street, Vancouver
Turtle Island is the name that various Indigenous nations have called “North America” since immemorial. The name comes from oral histories and creation stories about a turtle holding the world on its back.
This piece contains elements of Caleb’s style and traditional Cree and Woodland art forms. It celebrates the physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional connections between animals, human beings, and the lands from which they come.
Pro tip:
Take some time to learn about Woodland Art, a distinct style of Native art used in this piece. This style is rich with spiritual imagery and symbolism of transformation and duality.
12. Solidarity Storytelling
Address: South-facing wall of Murrin Hydro Station at 700 Main Street, Vancouver
Solidarity Storytelling is a trio of murals created by Chinese artist Emma Xie, Indigenous artist Chase Gray, and Black artist John Sebastian. It aims to highlight the importance of representation.
These murals are part of VMF’s Black Strathcona Resurgence Project (BSRP). The vision for this artwork was to interweave Chinese, Black, and Indigenous culture and presence vibrantly and dynamically, building towards a decolonized future collectively.
Pro tip:
This mural faces south, so for the best lighting for your photos, visit in the afternoon when the sun illuminates the artwork. Since this mural is part of BSRP, take some time to explore the Strathcona neighborhood.
13. Taking Care of Animals
Address: 3044 Highland Boulevard, North Vancouver
“Taking Care of Animals” celebrates animal companions. This mural, painted by artist Siobhan Joseph, is on the wall of a vet clinic and features three animals the clinic most often services: a dog, a turtle, and a parrot.
Siobhan Joseph is a Squamish Nation artist and designer. Her VMF 2021 mural, Taking Care of Animals, is a contemporary design with Coast Salish artistic influences.”
Pro tip:
Snap a photo with your furry friend in front of the mural! It would be a cute way to pay homage to the artwork’s message and create a personalized memory of your visit.
14. Snekwem Lane
Address: 531 Granville Street, Vancouver
Snekwem Lane was created by local artists James Harry and Lauren Brevner. They turned the laneway’s grey walls into a canvas for a blue, yellow, and salmon-red mural.
The design is their modern interpretation of a traditional Squamish First Nation story about how the salmon came to local waters, based on the story passed down to Harry by his father.
Pro tip:
Aim for a visit in the mid-morning or afternoon to capture the vibrant colors of the Snekwem Lane mural with minimal shadows. Take a moment to reflect on the Squamish First Nation story it depicts.
15. Lift Off
Address: 2750 Granville Street, Vancouver
Born and raised in Coast Salish territory, Carrielynn Victor is driven by a commitment to effecting positive change through art, expression, and advocacy. Motivated by her roots, she seeks to leave a lasting positive impact on the earth and its inhabitants.
In her VMF mural, Victor depicts a trumpeter swan poised to take flight while running atop the water’s surface. Her chosen design style incorporates elements from traditional Salish woven patterns, utilizing vibrant colors to form distinct three-dimensional shapes.
Pro tip:
This mural is located on the east side of the building, behind The Stanley Theatre. For optimal photos, factor in the shade depending on the time of day, as the afternoon sun might cast harsh shadows across the artwork.
16. Two Spirit Rising
Address: 1203 Davie Street, Vancouver
Margaret August, a Two-Spirit Salish Artist, was born and currently lives in the Lkwungen and W̱SÁNEĆ territories, also known as Victoria, BC. In their art piece, two Coast Salish thunderbirds encircle a human figure in the center.
The human figure symbolizes Two-Spirit people, who bring unique gifts to the world and offer spiritual medicine to the people. The combination of Thunderbird and Two-Spirit people signifies transformation.
Pro tip:
This mural faces west, so for the best lighting and vibrant colors, visit in the morning or on a bright afternoon when the sun is illuminating the wall.
17. We are croutons floating in cosmic soup
Address: West of Main, between 3rd & 4th, Vancouver
David Shillinglaw’s “We Are Croutons Floating in Cosmic Soup” is a vibrant mural that uses the unexpected image of croutons to represent humanity bobbing around in a vast, mysterious cosmic soup.
The croutons are depicted in various shapes, sizes, and colors, suggesting the diversity of human life. They float in a swirling sea of blues, greens, and purples, representing the vastness of space.
Pro tip:
Since the mural is outdoors, it’s best viewed on a sunny day when the colors will be most vibrant. Snap a photo with the mural and contemplate your meaning behind the “cosmic soup” metaphor.
18. Dance the Dance My Girl
Address: Exterior of La Casa Del Artista, East 3rd Avenue, Vancouver
The mural “Dance the Dance My Girl” is a collaborative work by Mexican muralist Irving Cano and Vancouver-based Mexican artist Ari De La Mora. It was created in 2017 as part of the Vancouver Mural Festival.
The mural’s centerpiece is a majestic Indigenous Mexican woman adorned with intricate patterns, surrounded by swirling shapes and symbolic imagery referencing Mexican heritage.
Pro tip:
Since the mural is large, take a step back to appreciate the whole composition and all the details the artists incorporated. Another must-do is to snap a photo in front of the mural, as the woman’s powerful pose will make for an Instagram-worthy moment.
19. Missing Piece
Address: 5 East 8th Avenue, Vancouver
The Missing Piece, a mural by Vancouver-based artist iHeart, depicts a young girl standing on her tiptoes, reaching for a piece of a puzzle heart floating above her. The vibrant colors and playful style immediately capture the viewer’s attention.
The missing piece in the heart symbolizes something incomplete, a longing for something more. The girl’s determined stance and hopeful expression as she reaches for the piece speak to the universal desire for wholeness and fulfillment.
Pro tip:
Since The Missing Piece is outdoors and freely accessible, the best time to visit is during the day for good lighting for photos. Vancouver has a mild climate, so spring, summer, and even early fall offer pleasant weather for sightseeing.
