Most Instagrammable Murals in D.C.
By Noelia Veras
Washington D.C is not only famous for the art inside of museums and galleries, but also for the vibrant street art. Murals are ubiquitous in D.C. and tend to be beautiful all the while presenting some sort of social commentary. In fact, many of the murals in D.C. emphasize historic African American figures and draw on the need to raise awareness about racial inequality in the nation’s capital.
On the side of Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street, a go-to spot when visiting D.C. and looking for comfort food, there is an iconic mural. The mural was painted by artist Aniekan Udofia and is meant to highlight successful African Americans and promote pride within and outside the black community. This mural is not only very popular, but it is significant. The mural is especially important for the U-street community because of its prominent black community.
In 2017 famous muralist Sabek came to D.C. to create a mural called “Kindred.” Kindred is a social commentary piece about prejudices based on appearance, and being more than what people see. The mural is located on 1210 V Street, NW and is adjacent to an apartment complex.
Culture House is a center for art and creativity located in Southwest Washington, D.C. The exterior of the building is a must-see spot in Washington D.C. as well as the interior. The center has events on a weekly basis, from Jazz concerts to art galleries. Culture House is dedicated to cultivating art and community simultaneously. The mural on the building invites creativity and is a great backdrop for Instagram.
Located just one metro stop from Catholic University’s campus, Birdsong mural stands proud and vibrant on Rhode Island Avenue. The artist, Eric Ricks, is originally from Liberia. The mural is not only complex and colorful, but it also shows great craftsmanship and meticulous detail.
Artists Kate DeCiccio and Rose Jaffe created this mural emphasizing community and diversity. The mural is called “Cup of Community” and really livens the brick wall with colors and a profound message about women and their role in unifying communities. This is one of the newer murals in D.C. located in an alleyway on Kennedy Street.
