Richmond, Virginia has become one of the top street art destinations on the East Coast. No longer just famous for its Civil War past and lively college town atmosphere, Richmond has transformed into a city where creative expression permeates every corner—literally. From large-scale, brightly colored murals to secret alleyway graffiti, Richmond VA street art is unapologetic, political, and funny, and deeply embedded in the culture of the city.
This Richmond, Virginia Street Art Guide will lead you to the top places to view urban art, essential murals to check out, self-guided tour tips, and insight into why Richmond’s street art scene is known nationally.
Why Richmond is a Street Art Destination
Richmond isn’t just dipping its toes in public art—it’s leading the charge. Since the 2012 launch of the Richmond Mural Project, the city has attracted internationally recognized street artists from around the world, making it a destination for mural enthusiasts and urban adventurers.
The city’s love of artistic expression is seen in its support for local painters, thriving gallery district, and mural-themed festivals. Whether a tourist with a camera or a resident walking his dog, the bright images covering buildings, bridges, and parking garages cannot be ignored.
The Richmond Mural Project: The Movement That Started It All
The Richmond Mural Project was created by Art Whino Gallery and has transformed the city’s blank walls into stunning pieces of urban art. With a goal to bring 100 world-class murals to Richmond, the project invited artists like Etam Cru, Aryz, RoA, Nevercrew, and Ron English.
Over 100 murals had been painted by 2016, transforming the city into an open-air museum. Murals range from abstract and surrealist to photo-realistic portraits and socially powerful commentaries.
Where to Find the Best Richmond Murals
Here are some of the best neighborhoods and streets for finding the most iconic street art in Richmond, VA.
1. Scott’s Addition
This trendy, industrial neighborhood has turned into a hotspot for Richmond murals. The neighborhood is walkable and full of breweries, making it perfect for a mural tour with a craft beer tasting afterward.
Highlights:
- Etam Cru’s “Moonshine” on the rear of a building on Summit Ave
- D*Face’s skull mural on Moore Street
- Vibrant pieces in front of The Veil Brewing Co.
2. Downtown Richmond & Broad Street
Downtown Richmond is lined with huge murals adorning the sides of parking garages and buildings.
Highlights:
- Nils Westergard’s portraits along Jefferson Street
- Murals along the Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA)
- Colorful walls along the 800–1000 blocks of West Broad Street
3. Jackson Ward
The Harlem of the South, Jackson Ward, combines rich African-American heritage with new, contemporary art.
Highlights:
- Powerful works by Hamilton Glass honoring Black culture
- Historic-style murals along the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site
4. Oregon Hill & The Fan District
These neighborhoods boast a combination of commissioned murals and neighborhood graffiti. Alleyways and garages are filled with gems.
Highlights:
- Small-scale pieces and stencil work in alleyways
- Mural walls along Cary Street and Meadow Street
Street Artists Worth Noting in Richmond
Richmond’s indigenous artist community is one of its greatest strengths. These are some of the names that have defined the city’s visual language:
- Hamilton Glass (aka HAM): Famous for graphic, geometric pieces that frequently incorporate social messages.
- Nils Westergard: A Richmond native whose realistic portraits frequently express intense emotion.
- André Shank (aka BIRDUDE): Known for his brightly colored, bird-inspired characters throughout the city.
- Ed Trask: One of the city’s earliest muralists whose style combines history and contemporary art.
Numerous international artists have also left their touch, including ONUR, Pixel Pancho, and 125er.
Hidden Gems: Where to Find Off-the-Beaten-Path Art
Though the large murals are breathtaking, don’t miss Richmond’s smaller graffiti nooks and installations:
- Canal Walk: Along the James River, the Canal Walk boasts both commissioned and random graffiti. It’s a local favorite for its hodgepodge of art and riverfront setting.
- Art Alley (West Grace Street): Tucked between Monroe Park and VCU’s campus, Art Alley is constantly evolving. It’s full of stencil art, wheatpaste posters, and bold statements.
- Vine Street & Byrd Park: Richmond’s skateboarding community and artists have left their signature around Vine Street and skate parks near Byrd Park.
Self-Guided Street Art Tours in Richmond
You don’t need a tour guide to enjoy Richmond’s vibrant street art scene. Here’s how to explore on your own:
Walking Tour
Begin in Scott’s Addition, and then walk downtown towards Broad Street and Jackson Ward. Google Maps can assist you in finding significant murals with search terms such as Richmond Mural Project or Richmond graffiti.
Bike Tour
Rent a bike from neighborhood shops such as Basket & Bike and ride from mural to mural. The Fan and Oregon Hill are most enjoyable on two wheels.
Mobile Apps
Experiment with apps such as Street Art Cities or Richmond Tour Guys for mapped mural tours and artist profiles.
Street Art Events & Festivals in Richmond
A few annual and seasonal festivals honor street art in Richmond:
- Mural Festival at Art Works: A combination of live painting, workshops, and exhibitions focused on public art.
- First Fridays Art Walk: Monthly in downtown RVA, with live mural painting and street performers.
- RVA Street Art Festival (Occasional): Organized in rotating locations, this event challenges artists to make vacant spaces such as power plants, bridges, and warehouses art canvases.
How Richmond Enables Its Street Artists
Richmond’s development in public art is not by coincidence. The city has consistently taken steps to enable creativity through:
- Public Art Commission: Funds for mural initiatives
- Grants & Residency Programs: Through programs such as CultureWorks Richmond
- Educational Support: Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) has a top-ranked arts program, driving local talent
The combination of public support and grass-roots energy creates Richmond a street art incubator.
Street Art Etiquette: What Tourists Should Know
When viewing Richmond murals, take note of the following:
- Be considerate: Don’t tag over something that’s already there.
- Take pictures: But don’t climb on buildings or obstruct sidewalks.
- Support the artists: Listen to them on social media, purchase prints, and visit the local shows.
- Stay safe: Some places have fewer people in them—check them out by day and make sure to follow well-lit streets at dusk.
FAQs About Richmond Street Art
Q1: What number of murals are located in Richmond, VA?
More than 150 publicly accessible murals throughout Richmond, due to continuous projects as well as commissions.
Q2: Is a mural map of Richmond available?
Yes! Websites such as the Richmond Mural Project and Street Art Cities offer new digital maps.
Q3: Are Richmond murals permanent?
Some murals are permanent, but others are seasonal or might get replaced along the way. That’s the charm of street art—it changes.
Q4: Can I commission a local artist for a mural or project?
Of course! Many Richmond artists will take commissions. Look at local galleries or artist websites for contact information.
Q5: When’s the best time to come for street art?
Spring and autumn are nice times of year to come out and walk around. Come during RVA First Fridays or mural festivals for a live art experience.
Final Thoughts: Why Richmond’s Street Art Scene Stands Out
Richmond, VA is more than a city steeped in history—it’s a contemporary art canvas. From giant murals to hidden alleyway treasures, Richmond’s street art mirrors its personality: progressive, expressive, and community-based. Whether you’re a mural enthusiast, an art aficionado, or simply interested, a stroll through the streets of Richmond will uncover stories in every hue and form.
So grab your sketchbook or camera and hit the streets—Richmond’s walls are waiting to inspire.
