Street art in Chennai has exploded in recent years, turning the city’s walls into canvases of public expression. From vibrant graffiti in Nungambakkam to socially conscious murals in Besant Nagar, the movement is making art more accessible and the cityscape more dynamic.
Organizations like the Goethe-Institut Chennai, St+art India Foundation, and Max Mueller Bhavan have been key players in supporting public art projects. These murals address themes like gender equality, climate change, and cultural identity, often created through community workshops and collaborations.
This growing street art scene blurs the line between gallery and public space. For many artists, the street offers a chance to engage directly with people, especially those who wouldn’t normally visit a gallery.
More than decoration, Chennai’s murals have become instruments of dialogue and change. They remind us that art belongs to everyone, and sometimes, the most powerful galleries are under the open sky.