Denver muralists and street artists have been busy brightening up the urban landscape with vibrant pops of color, unique and enlightened subjects, and telling stories through their art in a multitude of ways. For decades, they have covered alleyways, building exteriors, warehouses, garage doors and storefronts, making canvases of the city and filling our streets with more to look at than just what you'd expect. Tag along with us as we've mapped out some of our favorite pieces in the city by the most talented of artists.
John Prine Tribute
A hot spot for street art is one of Denver's creative hubs, River North Art District, or RiNo. With colorful and innovative street art around every corner, this John Prine Tribute was commissioned by Oh Boy! Records and is located at 1717 E 39th Ave.
Illegal Pete's on Colfax
At Illegal Pete's on Colfax, it would almost be more noticeable if there wasn't some street art to admire. Mike Graves, Colorado-based artist and muralist known for his lively characters, and Chris Huth, Colorado-based artist and printmaker, brought Pete's to life with their large mural including some Pabst Blue Ribbon, of course.
Casey Kawaguchi beneath Speer Blvd
Right by Larimer St. on Cherry Creek Trail, you can admire Denver-based artist Casey Kawaguchi's art. Mainly inspired by his Japanese heritage, his paintings of female figures are easily recognizable around town.
Power & Equality Denver Central Market
Back again in RiNo, right near the Denver Central Market, this mural is one of the first you'll see. The “Power and Equality” mural by Shephard Fairey is in the market's parking lot alongside a number of other jaw-dropping works of stunning magnitude. You can find this specific mural at 2631 Larimer Street.
Our Stories - Our Legacies - Our Lives Matter by Detour
Finished in November 2020, this massive mural is one of the absolute must-sees in Denver. Located in the back of Five Points Plaza on Clarkson Street, this mural features jazz great Charles Burrell, R&B star India Arie, entrepreneur Madame CJ Walker & Tuskegee Airman John Mosley. Easily one of the most prolific muralists in Denver, Detour has perfected a style of contemporary realism with vibrant digital colors, making him extremely sought after for any blank canvases around town.
Alicia Cardenas
Located at 27th & Larimer St., this mural depicts the late Alicia Cardenas, a matriarch in the Denver art scene. Painted by artists Jodie Herrera, Jaime Molina and Jher451, Cardenas served as a mentor to many aspiring Denver artists.
The Worst Crew
Located at Blake and Broadway Street, this larger-than-life mural was finished in 2020. On the backside of Breckenridge Brewery, artists Jaime Molina & Pedro Barrios have been transforming space through their mural work in Denver for years.