We all know that Portland has a vibrant art scene — and we’re not just talking about The Portland Art Museum or the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. One of our all-time favorite galleries? Portland itself.
Rose City is home to hundreds of meaningful murals and street art pieces. Today, we’re sharing where to find some of the pieces that paint a picture of our city.
“The Community Cycling Center Mural,” 1700 NE Alberta St. | By Robin Corbo
A collaborative effort between the lead artist, assistant artists, and dozens of local volunteers led to this mural’s creation in 2006. It showcases a variety of locomotion machines for children of all ages and physical abilities and was inspired by the building’s nonprofit tenant, which provides bikes to those in need.
“A Bridge to Pollinator Paradise,” 600 NE Grand Ave. | By Jeremy Nichols
Local wildlife, plants, and various modes of transit are emblazoned in striking colors along an Oregon Metro parking garage, greeting pedestrians and cyclists crossing the Blumenauer Bridge into the Lloyd District.
“Remembrance In Paint,” 66 SE Morrison St. | By Jaymeer, Leon, Mez Data, Kadie, Clown, Hagr, Uter, Nick Sawyers, Ar111, Smerk, Mewz, Seroe, Nekroe, Task, DontTrip, Bless,
Hand of Dogg, Fresh, Flash, and Ryan Bubnis
This collaborative piece in the Central Eastside Mural District honors the late Jason “J.” Brown and his advocacy work, which is credited for pushing the City of Portland to loosen its street art laws.
“Art Fills the Void,” Southeast 12th Avenue and Division Street | By Gorilla Wallflare
This 30-by-50-ft painting of a bruised banana has a big story to tell. Created in 1982 by one of Portland’s first anonymous “graffiti” art crews, it’s known as the oldest mural in Portland and is a rare surviving example of street art from the decade. It was restored in 2015.
“Welcome to the Northwest,” Southeast Milwaukie Avenue and Yukon Street | By Jeremy Nichols
The side of this building in the Westmoreland neighborhood gives passersby a taste of what lies outside Portland city limits.
“Keep Portland Weird,” 350 W. Burnside St. | Artist unlisted
It’s a Portland right of passage: stop at Voodoo Doughnut in Old Town, then take a selfie with the city’s unofficial motto across the street in the parking lot of Dante’s nightclub.
Untitled, 1401 SE Division St. | Artist unlisted
Alice, the Dormouse, the March Hare, and the Hatter are forever testing their sanity in this depiction of the famous tea party from Lewis Carroll’s classic story located along the northwest side of Books with Pictures. Shop staff said the mural was created in the 1980s and predates the business.
What are you thankful for today?
Photo by @agapetraveler
“Attitude of Gratitude,” 959 SE Division St. | By Fin DAC
More than 1,000 plants make up the hair of the five-story woman who towers over the Hosford-Abernethy neighborhood.
Home Forward commissioned the mural of Beatrice Morrow Cannady.
Photo courtesy of @mauriciopaints
“Beatrice Morrow Cannady,” 8820 N. Syracuse St. | By Mauricio Ramirez
This five-story mural, painted in 2021 at the top of Schrunk Riverview Tower, honors Oregon’s “most noted civil rights activist” of the early 20th century who lived and worked in Portland.
“Inheritance,” Southwest Second Avenue and Salmon Street | By Alex Chiu and Jeremy Nichols
The artists spent about 10 days creating the 11-story-tall mural that represents the passing of knowledge and a sustainable future to younger generations.
Rhino Mural, 1300 SE Morrison St. | By Josh Keys
Well... it looks like somebody needs to learn how to slow down and pay attention to road signs. This mighty beast has quite the signage collection on its horn.
Blind Insect Gallery, 2827 NE Alberta St. | By Rather Severe
The brightly colored florals on the side of this art gallery make it pretty hard to miss the spot.
Pie Spot Flamingos, 521 NE 21st Ave. | Artist unlisted
There’s nothing like an adorable photo op to help make all of your friends jealous of the sweet treats you just bought.
Want to make a day out of finding all the murals our city has to offer? Have a peek at this mural map and share photos of your artsy adventure with us on social media by using #PDXtoday.
