Fort Kochi Street Art

Overview

Fort Kochi's streets are adorned with vibrant murals, installations, and graffiti art, many created during the Kochi-Muziris Biennale by Indian and international artists. The outdoor art has transformed the neighborhood into an open-air gallery that can be explored freely.

Highlights

• Biennale murals: Large-scale wall paintings created during successive biennale editions, covering themes from social justice to mythology.
• Hidden gems: Smaller works tucked into alleyways, on compound walls, and on the sides of residential buildings reward curious explorers.
• Evolving canvas: New works are added and older ones evolve with weathering, creating an ever-changing outdoor gallery.

History

Street art in Fort Kochi emerged alongside the Kochi-Muziris Biennale starting in 2012. Artists were invited to create murals on public and private walls throughout the neighborhood. What began as biennale programming evolved into a permanent feature of the Fort Kochi landscape, with new works appearing regularly.

Visitor Tips

• Self-guided walk: Download a street art map from the biennale website or ask at local galleries for routes.
• Photography: The murals make excellent photo backdrops; visit in soft morning or late afternoon light.
• Duration: 45–75 minutes.