Photo by Mike Matney
As a celebration of graffiti art and hip-hop, Paint Louis is an annual event along the floodwall just south of the Gateway Arch. It is free and open to the public. With its humble beginnings of local artists wanting a space to express themselves, it has become internationally known event, with hundreds of artists from all over the world gathering to paint the 3 mile long floodwall. According to John Harrison, one of the founders of the event, it is a celebration of self-expression through the four elements of hip-hop: DJing, MCing, breakdancing, and graffiti.
Photo by Jane DiCampo
The wall was built by the Army Corps of Engineers after the flood of 1993 and is approximately 3 miles long. The wall was the one place that the artists could practice their craft without being questioned by the police or encountering gang violence. Beginning in 1997 the event has had a tenuous relationship with the city over the years. However with it becoming an international phenomenon, the relationship has improved and has been embraced by the city. The 2023 festival was the 26th year of the event and was featured in Forbes and other international media sites.
Photo by Sue Rakers
Photo by Ryan Stanley
Photo by Robert Crowe
As you travel along the wall, you will see a wide variety of styles of art. Many of the pieces convey a message and/or have a theme that the artist is presenting. There is plenty of interaction between the artists and the crowds as they take in the visuals and colors that cover the walls. The event is for the most part family friendly, with events held for young children (and their parents) to learn about the art of graffiti painting and to encourage their artistic side to come out. The organizers have a tent and stage set up where music and dance are performed throughout the day and into the evening.
Photo by Maureen Minich
Photo by Joe Rakers
Photo by Jennifer Sarti
The area though could see some big changes in the near future. Announced in August 2023 the Gateway South project was announced, a $1.2 Billion, 100 acre mixed use district to revitalize the riverfront area south of the Arch, which will right up against the floodwall. How will this affect Paint Louis? That is to be seen.
Photo by Hank Wiseman
Photo by Mike Matney
Photo by Sue Rakers
Photo by Ryan Stanley
Photo by Jane DiCampo
Photo by Maureen Minich
Photo by Joe Rakers
Photo by Mike Matney
Photo by Ryan Stanley
Photo by Jane DiCampo
Photo by Robert Crowe
Photo by Jane DiCampo
If you missed this year’s event don’t worry, Paint Louis will be back next year with more incredible art.
