Best Street Art & Graffiti Spots in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Vancouver, Canada, Vancouver, Unique & Fun, Best Street Art & Graffiti Spots

Best Street Art & Graffiti Spots in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

1. Hastings Street Mural

Vibrant murals painted by local and international artists decorate this street, creating a colorful backdrop for exploring the city.
  • Continuous Mural: The mural extends over multiple blocks, making it one of the longest murals in Vancouver.
  • Artist Collaboration: Collaborations between various artists give each piece a unique blend of styles and techniques.
  • Community Engagement: Many artists engage with the community, incorporating local themes and symbols into their work.

2. Gastown Steam Clock Mural

Beside the iconic steam clock in Gastown, a giant mural of Vancouver's history and landmarks creates an eye-catching scene.
  • Historical Depiction: The mural showcases significant historical events and famous figures in Vancouver's past.
  • Local Landmarks: Recognizable landmarks such as the steam clock, Stanley Park, and the Lions Gate Bridge are depicted.
  • Interactive Elements: Interactive elements allow visitors to take engaging photos with the artwork.

3. East Hastings and Carney Street

A collection of thought-provoking street art that addresses social issues, located in a vibrant and diverse neighborhood.
  • Social Awareness: Artworks focus on topics like homelessness, mental health, and human rights.
  • Cultural Diversity: The neighborhood's diverse population is reflected in the variety of artistic styles represented.
  • Growing Movement: This area serves as a hub for community-led street art initiatives and conversations.

4. Juice Truck Alley

An ever-changing collection of graffiti artworks adorn the walls of this alleyway, popular among street artists.
  • Frequent Updates: The artwork in Juice Truck Alley is constantly updated and evolving.
  • Artist Variety: Artists from around the world contribute to the diverse collection of works.
  • Hidden Gem: This lesser-known spot offers a unique street art experience for visitors.

5. Vancouver Mural Festival (VMF)

An annual event showcasing various artists and their large-scale murals scattered throughout the city.
  • Community Collaboration: The festival involves local residents, businesses, and schools in creating the artwork.
  • Artist Showcase: Talented international artists are featured alongside emerging local talent.
  • Urban Renewal: The festival contributes to the revitalization and beautification of Vancouver's neighborhoods.

6. Powell Street Station Mural

A stunning mural covering the entire interior of a skytrain station, featuring vivid colors and intricate designs.
  • Public Art in Transit: The mural adds a unique touch to the everyday commute for transit riders.
  • Community Representation: The artwork showcases figures and stories from Vancouver's Chinese-Canadian community.
  • Interactive Experience: Passersby can observe the mural while in motion, creating a dynamic viewing experience.

7. Vancouver Indigenous Mural Project (VIMP)

A series of murals celebrating the city's indigenous history and culture, located throughout downtown Vancouver.
  • Cultural Preservation: The murals raise awareness and educate visitors about indigenous peoples and their heritage.
  • Artist Collaboration: Indigenous artists from various nations collaborate on the creation of these powerful works.
  • Urban Reconciliation: The murals contribute to the process of urban reconciliation and healing.

8. Chinatown Alleyway Murals

Colorful and playful murals can be found in the alleyways of Vancouver's Chinatown, reflecting its vibrant culture.
  • Community Preservation: The artwork celebrates the rich history and traditions of Vancouver's Chinese community.
  • Artist Showcase: Talented local artists contribute to the lively collection of murals.
  • Hidden Treasure: These lesser-known alleyways offer a charming and authentic street art experience.

9. Vancouver Biennale Sculptures

A collection of temporary and permanent outdoor sculptures scattered throughout the city, showcasing international artists.
  • Public Art Accessibility: The sculptures are free and accessible to the public, encouraging exploration of the city.
  • Artist Showcase: World-renowned artists participate in this exhibition, offering a high-quality art experience.
  • Urban Revitalization: The sculptures help to beautify and revitalize public spaces throughout the city.

10. Commercial Drive Mural Tour

A self-guided walking tour featuring over 35 murals along Commercial Drive, showcasing various artistic styles and themes.
  • Self-Guided Experience: The tour allows visitors to explore the murals at their own pace.
  • Community Involvement: Local residents and businesses contribute to the creation of the artwork.
  • Artistic Diversity: The tour offers a wide variety of artistic styles, themes, and techniques.

11. Vancouver Mural of Reconciliation

A poignant mural located on the University of British Columbia's campus, addressing the issue of residential schools and reconciliation.
  • Historical Awareness: The mural serves as a reminder of Canada's residential school system and its impact on indigenous communities.
  • Community Healing: The artwork fosters conversation and healing around this difficult chapter in Canadian history.
  • Urban Reconciliation: The mural contributes to the process of urban reconciliation by promoting dialogue and understanding.

12. Olympic Village Mural

A large-scale mural located in Olympic Village, celebrating Vancouver's successful hosting of the 2010 Winter Olympics.
  • Historical Milestone: The mural commemorates the city's successful hosting of the 2010 Winter Olympics.
  • Artist Collaboration: The mural was created by a group of local artists, showcasing their diverse talents.
  • Community Pride: The artwork serves as a source of pride for Vancouverites and visitors alike.

13. Main Street Mural Project

A series of murals along Main Street showcasing the neighborhood's history, culture, and local characters.
  • Community Narrative: The murals tell the story of Main Street and its unique community.
  • Artist Collaboration: Local artists collaborate on creating these vibrant pieces of art.
  • Urban Renewal: The murals help to revitalize and beautify Main Street, attracting visitors and businesses.

14. Waterfront Station Mural

A mural covering the interior of a transit station, showcasing Vancouver's rich maritime history and stunning landscapes.
  • Public Art in Transit: The mural adds a unique touch to the everyday commute for transit riders.
  • Historical Depiction: The artwork showcases important historical events and figures in Vancouver's maritime past.
  • Interactive Experience: Passersby can observe the mural while in motion, creating a dynamic viewing experience.

15. Granville Island Public Art

A collection of outdoor sculptures and murals located on Granville Island, showcasing local and international artists.
  • Public Art Accessibility: The artworks are free and accessible to the public, encouraging exploration of the island.
  • Artist Showcase: World-renowned artists participate in this exhibition, offering a high-quality art experience.
  • Urban Renewal: The artworks help to beautify and revitalize Granville Island, attracting visitors and businesses.