17 World-famous murals: A journey through Street art history

Street art has a diverse and captivating history across the globe. It has been used to express both protest and celebration. Although world-renowned graffiti artists like Banksy and Jean Michel Basquiat have created valuable canvas works, the movement is deeply connected to the social and political issues of local communities. In this blog, we will explore the most well-known murals worldwide and their artistic and historical importance.

### 1. Girl with Balloon by Banksy

![Girl with Balloon by Banksy](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-12%20(3).webp "Girl with Balloon by Banksy")

"Girl with Balloon" by Banksy is a famous piece of street art that has gained immense popularity. The mural itself cannot be owned as it is painted on various walls in London. However, the artist has created signed prints and a unique spray-painted canvas version of the artwork. These signed prints can be sold for over $450,000 at auction, while the unique canvas version was sold for £1 million in 2018, just before being shredded by a hidden mechanism. This shocking event, known as "Love is in the Bin," proved the value of Banksy's work.

### 2. The Radiant Madonna by Owen Dippie

![The Radiant Madonna by Owen Dippie](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-21.webp "The Radiant Madonna by Owen Dippie")

The Radiant Madonna by Owen Dippie isn't a historic mural in the traditional sense but a contemporary artwork that bridges the gap between artistic eras. Created as a tribute to fellow artists, it depicts the Virgin Mary in the bold, graphic style of Keith Haring, cradling a baby Jesus. This unique fusion of a classical religious image with modern pop art signifies Dippie's admiration for his predecessors while offering a fresh perspective on religious iconography for a contemporary audience.

## 3. Man, Controller of the Universe by Diego Rivera

![Man, Controller of the Universe by Diego Rivera](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-31%20(1).webp "Man, Controller of the Universe by Diego Rivera")

Diego Rivera's monumental mural "Man, Controller of the Universe" wasn't his original vision. It stemmed from a controversial earlier piece, "Man at the Crossroads," which depicted historical and scientific figures alongside a communist leader.  This inclusion angered the mural's wealthy patrons, leading to its destruction.  Undeterred, Rivera recreated the work in Mexico with a new title. "Man, Controller of the Universe" portrays a central figure operating a giant machine, encircled by a diverse cast of scientists, leaders, and even symbols of human struggle like disease.  This powerful image reflects Rivera's view of humanity,  a complex force wielding immense potential for creation and destruction.  The mural's history and symbolic imagery solidify its place as a significant commentary on human progress and our challenges.

### 4. Omniscience (Omnisciencia) by José Clemente Orozco

![Omniscience (Omnisciencia) by José Clemente Orozco](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-41.webp "Omniscience (Omnisciencia) by José Clemente Orozco")

Omnisciencia" (Omniscience) by José Clemente Orozco, created in 1925, is a significant mural within the Mexican muralism movement.  This large-scale artwork resides within the historic House of Tiles in Mexico City. Unlike a typical painting, it isn't a literal scene but a symbolic one, featuring a central figure representing grace alongside others believed to embody contrasting forces or traits, possibly masculine and feminine.  The open-ended interpretation of the mural is part of its enduring cultural significance, prompting viewers to contemplate ideas of balance and the world's complexities.

### 5. Crack is Wack by Keith Haring

![Crack is Wack by Keith Haring](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-52.webp "Crack is Wack by Keith Haring")

Keith Haring's 1986 mural "Crack is Wack" isn't just a vibrant artwork; it's a powerful social commentary.  Created at a time when crack cocaine ravaged inner-city communities, particularly among young people, the mural served as a stark warning about the drug's dangers. Haring's signature style, with bold outlines and cartoon-like figures, made the message clear and accessible to a broad audience. "Crack is Wack" transcended being just art; it became a rallying cry against drug use, particularly within the African-American and Latino communities hit hardest by the crack epidemic.

## 6. Tuttomondo by Keith Haring

![Tuttomondo by Keith Haring](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-6%20(1)-min%20(1).webp "Tuttomondo by Keith Haring")

Pisa, Italy, holds a vibrant piece of history with Keith Haring's mural "Tuttomondo,"  meaning "All the World."  This 1989 creation is one of the last significant murals by the renowned artist before his death. Unlike some of his temporary graffiti works, Tuttomondo was designed as a permanent fixture to convey a message of global unity and peace for generations to come.  Haring's signature style of bold lines, bright colors, and playful figures combine to depict humans, animals, and nature existing in harmony.  This masterpiece is a lasting testament to Haring's artistic vision and a significant cultural treasure for Pisa.

###  7. Mt. Rushmore of Art by Eduardo Kobra

![Mt. Rushmore of Art by Eduardo Kobra](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-7%20(1)-min%20(1).webp "Mt. Rushmore of Art by Eduardo Kobra")

Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra's mural concept, often called the "Mt. Rushmore of Art," offers a unique twist on the well-known presidential monument. Instead of presidents, Kobra's colossal artwork depicts four artistic giants: Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, Keith Haring, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. This breathes new life into the concept of a monumental carving, transforming it into a celebration of artistic innovation and the enduring cultural impact of these iconic creators. Kobra's mural transcends mere portraiture, becoming a symbol of artistic legacy and the power of art to shape global consciousness.

### 8. The March of Humanity on Earth and into the Cosmos by David Alfaro Siqueiros

![The March of Humanity on Earth and into the Cosmos by David Alfaro Siqueiros](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-8%20(1)-min%20(1).webp "The March of Humanity on Earth and into the Cosmos by David Alfaro Siqueiros")

David Alfaro Siqueiros created a massive mural called "The March of Humanity on Earth and into the Cosmos". This artwork is a magnificent piece of art and a profound commentary on human history and our future potential. The mural portrays a vast crowd moving forward, symbolizing the journey of humankind. While some figures struggle, others reach for the stars, representing hope and humanity's ability to explore the universe. As a well-known Mexican muralist, Siqueiros infused the artwork with a deep understanding of our collective story, provoking viewers to reflect on our past and the possibilities ahead.

## 9. Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Elle Street Art

![Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Elle Street Art](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-9%20(1)-min%20(1).webp "Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Elle Street Art")

 New York City paid tribute to the legacy of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg by unveiling a powerful mural created by artist Elle in 2020, shortly after the justice's passing. The three-story mural features a portrait of Ginsburg surrounded by symbolic imagery. The Brooklyn Bridge represents her birthplace, while a statue evokes the Supreme Court, where she served. This vibrant artwork serves as a public reminder of Ginsburg's lifelong fight for equality and justice, inspiring future generations in the heart of New York City.

### 10. The History of Mexico by Diego Rivera

![The History of Mexico by Diego Rivera](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-10-_2_-min.webp "The History of Mexico by Diego Rivera")

Diego Rivera's mural "The History of Mexico" depicts the lives of everyday Mexicans, from the pre-Columbian era to the 1930s, highlighting their struggles, achievements, and resistance. The central figures of the mural are the common people, alongside historical icons, aiming to instill national pride and educate viewers about Mexico's past. The mural is a powerful testament to the country's rich and diverse heritage.

### 11. MaestraPeace by Multiple Artists

![MaestraPeace by Multiple Artists](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-11-_1_-min.webp "MaestraPeace by Multiple Artists")

The MaestraPeace mural in San Francisco is not just a beautiful artwork but also a tribute to the accomplishments of women. It was created collaboratively by seven female artists in 1994 and covers the exterior of the Women's Building. The large-scale mural portrays influential women throughout history, along with symbolic imagery. MaestraPeace is not only a celebration of women's contributions but also a landmark that reinforces the mission of the Women's Building in San Francisco.

### 12. Chrome Dog by Bik Ismo

![Chrome Dog by Bik Ismo](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-12-_4_-min.webp "Chrome Dog by Bik Ismo")

Bik Ismo's "Chrome Dog" mural was unique street art created using spray paint during a Miami art event. This artwork achieved a mesmerizing chrome effect, reflecting its surroundings like a giant mirror. Although the original mural is no longer there, limited edition prints of this artwork are still available, keeping its cultural significance alive. "Chrome Dog" stands out because of its innovative technique and playful transformation of a commonly known subject, showcasing the creative spirit of street art.

### 13. Louis Armstrong by Eduardo Kobra

![Louis Armstrong by Eduardo Kobra](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/17-World-Famous-Murals.webp "Louis Armstrong by Eduardo Kobra")

Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra created a huge mural called "Louis Armstrong", which pays tribute to the jazz legend and celebrates the musical heritage of New Orleans. The mural unveiled in 2019 on the 118th anniversary of Armstrong's birth, stands three stories tall and adorns a building on a historically significant jazz street. The colorful artwork is a powerful reminder of Armstrong's enduring influence and the city's deep connection to the jazz genre.

### 14. Mirrors George Town by Ernest Zacharevic

![Mirrors George Town by Ernest Zacharevic](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-14-min.webp "Mirrors George Town by Ernest Zacharevic")

George Town received a lively makeover in 2012 with the "Mirrors George Town" project by Ernest Zacharevic. This wasn't merely street art but a celebration of the city's multicultural heritage. Zacharevic's murals, which portrayed everyday life scenes and architectural elements, adorned the sides of buildings. These artworks functioned as windows into the city's soul, reflecting its rich history and the diverse communities that have influenced it. The project's success transformed these murals into major tourist attractions, with visitors flocking to capture photos beside these artistic mirrors of George Town's identity.

### 15. Marcus Rashford by Akse P19

![Marcus Rashford by Akse P19](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/Beyond-the-Brick_-Unveiling-Famous-Murals-15-min%20(2).webp "Marcus Rashford by Akse P19")

The Marcus Rashford mural in Manchester, created by street artist Akse P19 in 2020, is a black-and-white portrait that honors Rashford's commendable efforts to tackle child food poverty during the COVID-19 pandemic. The mural's cultural significance surpasses its artistic value, as it represents a public expression of gratitude towards Rashford and a message of hope in the fight against hunger. The vandalism it endured, followed by a wave of community support, further accentuates the mural's power as a symbol of unity and social responsibility.

### 16. John Lewis Mural by Sean Schwab

![John Lewis Mural by Sean Schwab](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/17-World-Famous-Murals-%20(1).webp "John Lewis Mural by Sean Schwab")

The "HERO" mural in Atlanta is a beautiful tribute to the late civil rights activist John Lewis. It was created by artist Sean Schwab in 2012 and stands six stories tall. The mural features Lewis's portrait, the word "HERO" ,and some of his most impactful quotes. This permanent artwork is a powerful reminder of Lewis' legacy and the ongoing fight for equality. The mural's size and prominent location ensure it reaches a wide audience, making it a significant cultural symbol in Atlanta and beyond.

## 17. Make Art Not War by Shepard Fairey

![Make Art Not War by Shepard Fairey](https://hedonova.b-cdn.net/Hedonova%20images/%20All%20Hedonova%20blogs/17%20World-famous%20murals%3A%20A%20journey%20through%20Street%20art%20history/17-World-Famous-Murals-.webp "Make Art Not War by Shepard Fairey")

Shepard Fairey's "Make Art Not War" mural is not just a colorful street art but also a contemporary social commentary with historical roots. This artwork is a modern take on the famous anti-war slogan "Make love, not war" that emerged in the 1960s. Fairey's piece replaces the word 'love' with 'art' reflecting a shift in how some people view social change. The bold style and colors of the mural resemble the psychedelic art of the 60s, whereas the message is still relevant, urging individuals to direct their energy towards creative arts to create a more peaceful world.

Explore the vibrant tapestry of street art history with our curated journey through 17 world-famous murals. From Banksy's iconic 'Girl with Balloon' to Diego Rivera's monumental 'Man, Controller of the Universe,' delve into the artistic and historical significance of these captivating works. Join us as we uncover the stories behind each mural, from social commentary to celebration, and discover the diverse voices and visions that shape our streets and communities. Embark on this immersive adventure through the colorful world of street art.

17 World-famous murals: A journey through Street art history

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