A Guide to Norfolk’s Murals October 18, 2020 by Visit Norfolk With self-guided tours aplenty, Norfolk’s art scene is not to be missed. Everything from public murals to installations on local buildings have been designed for the city. The up and coming art scene throughout the city provides a platform for artists at all stages in their career, whether just starting out or well-established, to create public murals on local businesses showcasing the city of Norfolk. Any space, whether on a building wall, a house, a shed or even the sidewalk, can be transformed into a stunning display by local artists whose love for the city is obvious in the copious ties to Norfolk painted into every piece. BLOOM Artists: Carl Medley III and Charles Rasputin Created by two Norfolk artists, Bloom is a combination of vibrant pink roses and stark white fangs located at 801 Boush Street. The artists were inspired by the intense energy and fierce creativity of the NEON District and wanted to showcase it through this mural. NEONing Artist: Joan Biddle + Volunteers Guiding you through the NEON District are colorful accents like sidewalk painted triangles and fences by Joan Biddle and volunteers. You can find them on park benches, along sidewalks and under murals, reflecting the colorful artwork found along the walls of local small businesses. These bright and vibrant pieces provide a guide for locals and visitors alike to experience the unique and creative artwork of NEON. 757 ENERGY & VIBE Artist: Jerrod Ray and WKTR News 3 @allisonk_14, Instagram Visitors and locals looking for a new “Instagram worthy’ photo spot, look no further than the 757 Energy & Vibe mural by Jerrod Ray in collaboration with WKTR News 3. This vibrant colored mural highlights the unique and creative community of Hampton Roads which is oftentimes called ‘The 757’. LABOR OF LOVE Artist: Hannah Kirkpatrick @riseandshine757, Instagram Alongside the Glass Wheel Studio, a contemporary art facility located in the heart of The NEON, Norfolk’s Arts District “Labor of Love” glows in the artist’s handwriting, forming an ECG or heartbeat. This unique piece of artwork expresses the energy required to sustain one’s passion. In her practice, Hannah playfully links the transitions in technology through objects, devices and engaging experiences of art. Razzle Dazzle Artist: Nick Kuszyk Paying homage to the Navy’s camouflage styles from World War I battleships, Razzle Dazzle by Nick Kuszyk covers a 3-story wall on Granby Street. NFK Arts Artists: Elliott Addesso and students Many of the murals throughout the city, both inside and out of the NEON District have been collaborations between local artists and Norfolk’s Emerging Leaders Program. Some, like NFK Arts are outlined by an artist, in this case, Elliott Addesso, and then students are the ones to fill in the outline. Fathoms of Freedom Artists: Christopher Kozak and students Featuring the goddess representing liberty, Fathoms of Freedom was painted by teens during the Public Art and Norfolk Emerging Leaders summer program and designed by Christopher Kozak. With nods to the North Star, various ships, and Navy symbols this piece pays tribute to the naval and seafaring history of Norfolk. Humpbacks Off the Virginia Coast Artist: Robert Wyland Humpbacks Off the Virginia Coast is a life-sized mural of humpback whales painted by Robert Wyland as part of his quest to paint over 100 life-sized murals of marine life. Robert Wyland and the Wyland Foundation set out this goal to increase awareness and conservation efforts of aquatic habitats. Solidarity Artist: Aimee Bruce This piece takes inspiration from “Animal Farm” and features different animals supporting the building, including a horse, a chicken, and a cat to symbolize how everyone must come together as a community in spite of our differences. For more information regarding free public art tours click here. Don’t forget to tag us in your pictures! #VisitNorfolkVA