Music credit:https://soundcloud.com/best_no_copyright_music/halcyon-runaway-feat-valentina-franco-heuse-remix
Throughout the many art festivals that take place in Downtown Phoenix, the Oak Street Alley Mural Festival is definitely one that catches the locals eyes. It is off the beaten path taking place in an alleyway on Oak Street. It is a day that focuses on local creatives and graffiti artists that offer live mural paintings for the community to watch. Our team was fortunate to be able to attend this event on March 16, 2019. When adding live entertainment, food, and some of the best street artists, it seemed unbeatable to duplicate the eccentric vibe. Although this event may be casual, it brings the community together as one where they can socialize and watch the art that gives the city of Phoenix its uniqueness. The event was put on by Murals of Phoenix and it was simply a way to showcase the many artists in Phoenix. The mission of Murals of Phoenix is “to support and promote artists and their work by providing them a platform to share their narrative and strengthen ties within the community,” just as 602 POPhx does.
Aside from the art, there was live entertainment from Kite 9D3, The Edisons, Hollowpoint Vigils, Jerusafunk, and many more all from the Phoenix area. This kept the crowds moving with energy and excitement. Food was also offered from Taco Juan and drinks from Azukar Coffee, which allowed the community to stay refreshed and full through a long day of mural painting. Being an event for all ages, The Millet house helped create the kids mural and offered bean bag toss, a drawing station, and a life sized four in a row in order to keep the children feel included.
One thing that makes this event unique is the fact that you can watch a mural come alive from start to finish. The artists paint in an open space on the brick wall in the alley and allow viewers to watch them create their magic. Each artist has their own style so this alleyway has many diverse pieces some creating powerful messages that are more than what meets the eye. The murals stay up for the community to enjoy so if you would like to see the artists colorful creations, you can visit 1401 East Oak Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85005, United States. If you want to learn more about the Oak Street Alley Mural Festival, you can check out the Murals of Phoenix website: http://www.muralsofphoenix.com or follow them on instagram, @muralsofphoenix in order to stay updated on next years mural festival!