The old residences in Kaohsiung’s Pier-2 have gotten a beautiful makeover—building graffiti turns into “residence murals” art

▲ “Residence Murals” creation at Kaohsiung’s Pier-2 Art District. (Artist: GIRENHAO) (Photo/FromPier-2 Art District The Pier-2 Art CenterFacebook)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Kaohsiung’s Pier-2 Art District began the “Residence Murals—Pier-2 Neighbors’ Wall Creation Project” this June, using graffiti art to revamp the exterior walls of nearby residential buildings and give old homes a new facade. The first phase features artists GIRENHAO (GIRENHAO),Reach, andCandy Bird, who have each created a set of murals on three buildings, with completion expected by July 15.

▲ Residence Mural. (Artist: Reach) (Photo/FromPier-2 Art District The Pier-2 Art CenterFacebook)

In recent years, Pier-2 has become a popular tourist spot in Kaohsiung by combining historical culture, scenic views, and creative arts. As the art district is located right next to surrounding neighborhoods, the contrast between the booming Pier-2 and the aging houses nearby became striking. This gave rise to the creation project, which aims to rejuvenate the old community through wall graffiti.

▲ Local residents admire the residence mural creations. (Photo/FromPier-2 Art District The Pier-2 Art CenterFacebook)

Sharing the process of artists creating on-site, as well as their interactions with nearby residents and visitors during the creative process, is also an important part of this project. The first phase of the residence murals is almost complete. When you pass by Pier-2, be sure to check out the “residence murals” and appreciate how the artists use graffiti art to realize “residence art,” visually transforming old houses.

Residence Murals—Pier-2 Neighbors’ Wall Creation Project
Exhibition location: Kaohsiung Pier-2 Art District (residences along the bike path near Dayong Road, No. 35 Bixin Street)
Creation period: 2016-06-06 ~ 2016-07-15
Opening hours: Outdoor exhibition, no time restrictions