The Plaza Walls Murals - Oklahoma

What started out as just another stop on a road trip, quickly turned into one of our favorite destinations. From the beautiful scenery and rich history, Oklahoma City quickly captured our hearts. The thing that surprised us the most was how rich in culture the city is, especially when it comes to street art. If you’ve never heard of the Plaza Walls Murals in Oklahoma, you’re in for a treat.

How did the Plaza Walls Murals start?

The Plaza Walls Murals started in 2015 when the Oklahoma City Arts Commission, along with property owner Steve Mason, gave permission for artists to create on the walls of the Plaza District. This was the first legally-permitted area to allow graffiti in Oklahoma City and began with a one-year pilot program. Local artists Dylan Bradway and Kris Kanaly brought the vision to life during the 17th annual Plaza District Festival, and it hasn’t slowed down since!

What are the Plaza Walls Murals?

The Plaza Walls Murals are an ingenious idea of rotating murals in the alleys and along the buildings in the Plaza District in Oklahoma City. While the murals are frequently rotating, the largest change seems to happen during the Plaza Walls Mural Expo. This year they’re painting 38 new murals for the expo! You may also see artists creating new murals just before the Second Friday Art Walks. The murals have been a way for artists to express themselves and push boundaries. And while you’ll see several murals that were created using spray paint, you’ll also see some that use the more traditional art supply: a paintbrush.

I’m sold! When can I visit?

Now! Seriously, go now. Then you can go again in a month to see new creations. The beauty of the Plaza Walls Murals is that you can go again and again and always see a new creation. Just put 1745 NW 16th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73106 in your gps and go.

The Art

While the murals are ever changing, that doesn’t deter the artists from making some powerful artwork. Artists have used their murals for various forms of activism, including the fight over clean water and dispelling societal norms. But activism isn’t all you’ll see here: there are also tons of murals that are just plain fun! Here are our favorite murals from our visit during the Summer of 2023.