Paris is currently being transformed with an infusion of Olympic-inspired street art. Nearly 30 vibrant pieces have surfaced on metro station walls, a billboard at the airport, and in front of city hall. These artworks showcase various scenes, such as French fencer Ysaora Thibus in action and canoers navigating the Seine River, capturing the essence of energy and diversity brought by the Olympics.
Renowned street artists from different continents, including JonOne, Marko 93, Olivia De Bona, Alex Senna, Vexta, and Swoon, were selected by Visa to participate in this initiative supporting small businesses. The colorful and expressive murals can be found in train stations, airports, taxis, digital screens, and billboards throughout Paris and neighboring Olympic host cities.
The open-air exhibition curated by urban art expert Nicolas Laugero Lasserre features 28 original artworks reflecting the spirit of Parisian neighborhoods like Saint-Denis, Montmartre, and Rue Montorgueil. These pieces showcase the vibrancy of local establishments and will be on display until September 8, blending art and sport to embody the values of tolerance, open-mindedness, and self-improvement.
Artists like De Bona, who initially faced challenges with the acceptance of street art, now view it as a bridge connecting people with art. Marko 93, inspired by the graffiti culture of 1980s New York, highlights the importance of perseverance in both art and life. JonOne envisions a future where art competitions are reintroduced into the Olympics, emphasizing the parallels between artists and athletes and advocating for art to be recognized as an Olympic-worthy pursuit.
As Paris embraces this artistic transformation, locals and visitors alike are treated to a vibrant celebration of creativity, showcasing the evolution and acceptance of street art as a dynamic and accessible form of expression.
