If you're looking for a city that's bursting with creativity, look no further than Tbilisi. Georgia's capital is a hub of artistic expression, with street art and murals adorning every corner. From the colorful and whimsical to the political and thought-provoking, there's something for everyone in Tbilisi's street art scene. In this blog post, we'll take you on a tour of the best street art in Tbilisi, and give you some tips on how to find it.
What is Street Art?
Before we dive into the best street art in Tbilisi, let's take a moment to define what street art actually is. Street art is a form of visual art that is created in public spaces, often without permission. It can take many forms, including murals, graffiti, stickers, and installations. Street art is often used as a means of social and political commentary, as well as a way to beautify and transform urban spaces.
Tbilisi's Street Art Scene
Tbilisi's street art scene has exploded in recent years, with artists from all over the world coming to the city to leave their mark. From the narrow alleys of the Old Town to the wide boulevards of Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi is a canvas for some of the most talented street artists in the world.
Fabrika
One of the best places to start your street art tour of Tbilisi is at Fabrika, a former Soviet sewing factory that has been transformed into a creative hub. Fabrika is home to a number of street art murals, including a stunning piece by Georgian artist Gagosh. The mural features a vibrant color palette and intricate details, and is a must-see for anyone interested in street art.
Old Town
The Old Town of Tbilisi is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, each one more charming than the last. It's also a great place to find street art. Keep an eye out for murals by Georgian artists like TamOonz, who has created a number of colorful and whimsical pieces throughout the Old Town. One of the most impressive is a mural of a giant elephant, which can be found on a side street near the Metekhi Bridge.
Rustaveli Avenue
Rustaveli Avenue is one of the main thoroughfares in Tbilisi, and it's also home to some of the city's most impressive street art. Look out for a mural by Spanish artist Okuda San Miguel, which features his signature geometric style and bold colors. The mural is located on the side of a building near the Rustaveli metro station, and is hard to miss.
Marjanishvili
Marjanishvili is a neighborhood in Tbilisi that's known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a stroll through the area and you'll see murals by artists from all over the world, including a stunning piece by Portuguese artist Vhils. The mural features a portrait of a man carved into the side of a building, and is a testament to Vhils' incredible talent.
Tips for Finding Street Art in Tbilisi
Now that you know where to find the best street art in Tbilisi, here are some tips to help you make the most of your street art tour:
- Take a walking tour: There are a number of walking tours available in Tbilisi that focus specifically on street art. These tours are a great way to learn more about the artists and the stories behind their work. One popular tour is the Tbilisi Street Art Tour, which takes visitors to some of the city's most impressive murals and installations.
- Explore the side streets: Some of the best street art in Tbilisi can be found on the side streets and alleyways. Don't be afraid to venture off the main roads and see what you can find. You never know what hidden gems you might discover.
- Keep your eyes peeled: Street art can be found in unexpected places, so keep your eyes peeled as you explore the city. You never know what you might find. Some of the best pieces are tucked away in corners and alleys, waiting to be discovered.
- Check social media: Many street artists and art collectives in Tbilisi have a presence on social media. Follow them to stay up-to-date on new pieces and events. Some popular Instagram accounts to follow include @tbilisistreetart, @streetart_georgia, and @urbanart_georgia.
Conclusion
Tbilisi's street art scene is a testament to the city's creativity and artistic spirit. Whether you're a seasoned street art enthusiast or just looking for something fun and unique to do in the city, a street art tour of Tbilisi is sure to be a memorable experience. So grab your camera and your walking shoes, and get ready to discover some of the most impressive street art in the world.