As a lover of all things unconventional and authentic, I’ve always been drawn to street art.
It’s the embodiment of the people’s voice and a reflection of the community’s soul.
Asheville is a city that’s always been at the forefront of creativity and self-expression. And nowhere is that more evident than in its vibrant street art scene.
From sprawling murals to hidden gems tucked away in alleyways, the city is awash in colorful and thought-provoking pieces that will stop you in your tracks.
Asheville’s Street Art Scene
Asheville is home to a vibrant and talented community of street artists. Some of the most prominent names include Ishmael, Gus Cutty, Alex Irvine, and Dustin Spagnola. These artists have contributed greatly to the city’s street art scene, creating stunning and thought-provoking pieces that have become part of Asheville’s cultural fabric.
There are also many up-and-coming artists who are making their mark on the city’s walls and alleys, and I have no doubt that we’ll be seeing more incredible work from them in the years to come.
In this blog post, I’ll take you on a tour of some of the most incredible street art spots in Asheville and give you a glimpse into what makes this scene so unique.
Street Art in West Asheville
West Asheville, an area roughly bounded by the French Broad River to the east, I-40 to the south, and the Enka area to the west, has been officially part of the City of Asheville since 1917. But to locals, it remains a distinct and separate part of town, with its own unique character and flavor.
Dolly Parton and Ru Paul, by Gus Cutty, at Beauty Parade, Asheville, NC 28806
Asheville Mural, by Jay Atkinson, at Haywood Commons, 507 Haywood Road
To me, West Asheville is a vibrant neighborhood teeming with creative energy. It’s evident in the sheer volume of stunning street art that can be found around every corner.
One of the things I love about the street art in this area is the diversity of styles and techniques on display.
Art by Dustin Spagnola, West Asheville, Asheville, NC
There are whimsical cartoon characters, haunting portraits, and bold abstract designs – all competing for your attention.
Joan of Arc, by Ian Wilkinson, Next To Archetype Brewing at 265 Haywood Rd
Another thing that makes West Asheville such a great place for street art is the way that it reflects the neighborhood’s unique personality.
Mural by Simple Compositions, West Asheville, 526 Haywood Road
The murals and tags here are a reflection of the people who live and work in this area. They are a celebration of the creativity, diversity, and individuality that make West Asheville such a special place.
In short, if you’re a street art fan, West Asheville is not to be missed.
Street Art in the River Arts District
The River Arts District in Asheville, North Carolina, is a true haven for street art enthusiasts. It’s a place where creativity flourishes, and the air is alive with the vibrant colors of spray paint. This area was once a hub for industrial activity, but now it’s a thriving arts community where artists express themselves through their work.
There are literally endless murals throughout River Arts District, and everytime I go here I find something new that I didn’t notice before. 339 Old Lyman St, Asheville, NC 28801
The walls of abandoned warehouses and factories have been transformed into canvases for some of the most talented and creative street artists in the country. This mural (above, 122 Riverside Drive) is a collab by multiple artists, including @ianthepainter, @cylonboy and others.
One of my favorites is Homer eating a Donut on the side of this abandoned warehouse in the River Arts District. It’s located at 304 Lyman St., Asheville, NC 28801. The artist is Jerkface.
The street art in the River Arts District is as diverse as the artists who create it. You’ll find everything from large-scale, photorealistic portraits to abstract, geometric designs.
Some pieces are whimsical and playful, while others are political or socially conscious.
The portrait (above, left) was created by Jack Henry, who is an artist in the River Arts District.
But regardless of the style or message, each piece is a testament to the skill and creativity of the artist who brought it to life.
One of the most impressive aspects of the street art in the River Arts District is its sheer scale. Some of the murals cover entire buildings, stretching stories high and commanding attention from blocks away. But even the smaller pieces are worth seeking out, tucked away in unexpected corners or hiding in plain sight on street signs and electrical boxes.
I really love these 3-D textured animal murals by artist @shakyamunibotta. I couldn’t find a good way to attribute this artist, so if you have some more info, I’d love to hear from you!
In short, if you’re a fan of street art, the River Arts District is not to be missed. It’s a vibrant, ever-evolving canvas that showcases some of the best and most exciting artists working today.
Street Art Around Downtown Asheville
The beating heart of the city. It’s a place where art, culture, and creativity come together, and the street art scene is no exception. Walking down the streets of downtown Asheville, you’ll be met with an eclectic mix of murals, sculptures, and graffiti.
The Buddha Mural by Amanda Giacomini in Downtown Asheville is one of my favorites! You can find it at The Social Lounge at 29 Broadway St in Downtown Asheville, NC.
Parting Thoughts
From the striking murals to the hidden gems tucked away in alleyways, the street art here is a testament to the creativity and self-expression of the community.
Every piece has a story to tell, a message to convey, and a soul of its own.
It’s a beautiful thing to see how the city has embraced and nurtured this scene, allowing it to thrive and evolve into the vibrant and dynamic art form that it is today.
And I have no doubt that it will continue to inspire and captivate both locals and visitors alike for years to come.