On January 24, 2017, a 20-metre wide mural by celebrated Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos was officially opened, with both the artist and the mayor of Porto (Rui Moreira) present.
The mural is a partnership project between Fundação Joana Vasconcelos and Steak ‘n Shake Portugal, an American-style burger franchise (there are three locations so far in Portugal). The mural consists of 8,000 hand-painted tiles and is one of the largest public works by Joana Vasconcelos, who is best known for large sculptures, eg. her 2012 exhibition in Versailles (my favourite piece is the pair of high-heeled shoes made from pots).
I’ve included a short video clip at the bottom to show the mural in its entirety since I didn’t have a wide-angle lens the day I shot the pictures. The mural is an explosion of colour visible from afar, but best appreciated in person. (I really, really hope it doesn’t get touched by graffiti.) Naturally, as with all art pieces, the mural has drawn some criticism but I’m guessing that might be because of who it’s attached to versus the art itself. But only time will tell, or until someone is willing to explain their reasoning.
As always, feel free to share your own opinion.
February 28, 2017
Album: Portugal [Winter 2016/2017]
