Craving some culture? Vibrant, grand murals cover otherwise lackluster buildings around the state. By car or on foot, embark on a self-guided mural tour.
We Shall Overcome by Case Ma’Claim. Courtesy of the City of Jersey City
Jersey City
The Jersey City Mural Arts Program, started in 2013, links artists and property owners with the goal of beautifying the city. There are more than 100 murals scattered throughout the wards. Use this map to plan your outdoor art gallery tour.
Untitled by Thiago Valdi. Photo by Jacqueline Klecak
Asbury Park
The Wooden Walls Project is a public-art initiative started in 2015 by curator Jenn Hampton, who owns Parlor Gallery on Cookman Avenue, and Madison Marquette, the real estate development company behind the rejuvenation of the Asbury Park boardwalk. After a day at the beach, explore the diverse colorful creations in this city by the sea.
Sakia, Sakia, Sakia, Sakia by Tatyana Fazlalizadeh. Courtesy of Cody Rasmussen
Newark
Did you know that Newark is home to the longest mural on the East Coast? In 2017, 18 artists painted Gateways to Newark: Portraits. It stretches 1.39 miles along McCarter Highway (Route 21). The 16 distinct panels were painted onto the Amtrak retention wall below the tracks. The many stoplights on the road allow you to view this mural from a car, but it’s best appreciated on foot. There is no sidewalk, so you’ll have to stroll on the opposite side of McCarter to view the works.
A Drop Breaks the Stone by artist Lunar New Year, a Rutgers University Mason Gross School of the Arts alumnus. Courtesy of Middlesex County Division of Arts & History Services
Middlesex County
Home to vibrant murals and unique sculptures, Middlesex County’s outdoor art brings streetscapes and parks to life. Above, A Drop Breaks the Stone looks down on passersby at the corner of Jersey Avenue and Handy Street in New Brunswick. Plan your route using this interactive map that highlights public art in Perth Amboy, Woodbridge, Highland Park, Piscataway and New Brunswick.