Pixel IDF Street Art Ambassador
Boulevard Paris 13
The Boulevard Paris 13, located in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, has become a real open-air museum dedicated to street art. This boulevard, which stretches mainly along Avenue de Choisy and Boulevard Vincent-Auriol, has seen the birth of some of the largest urban art projects in France. Here is an overview of the history and evolution of street art on the Boulevard Paris 13.
Historical Background
Initiative of the galleries and the municipality: The "Boulevard Paris 13" project was born thanks to the collaboration between the Galerie Itinerrance, directed by Mehdi Ben Cheikh, and the town hall of the 13th arrondissement. The objective was to transform the facades of the buildings into gigantic canvases for street art artists, bringing a new cultural dynamic to the district.
The first works (2012-2013): It was in 2012 that the first large frescoes appeared on the Boulevard Vincent-Auriol. The artists invited to participate are among the most renowned on the international scene, quickly transforming the boulevard into a must-see destination for urban art lovers.
Emblematic works
The involvement of world-renowned artists: Artists such as Shepard Fairey (Obey), C215, Inti, D*Face, Invader, and JR have contributed to making this project a global success. Their monumental works, often visible from afar, draw attention to social, political, and cultural themes.
Shepard Fairey (Obey): Known for his famous "Hope" portrait of Barack Obama, Shepard Fairey has created several works on Boulevard Paris 13, including the "Marianne" combining his recognizable graphic style with strong political messages.
Outstanding Artists and Works
D*Face: The British artist has created an imposing fresco depicting a half-human, half-machine figure, typical of his subversive pop art style. His works often address themes such as consumer society, celebrity worship, and the superficiality of the modern world. He uses irony and humour to comment on these topics, playing with familiar images to divert them in provocative ways.
Inti: The Chilean artist created a vibrant fresco in 2013, representing a character in warm colors, inspired by Andean cultures, on one of the towers of the boulevard. His works are a rich mix of warm colors, symbolic motifs, and stylized human figures.
Cultural and Social Impact
An open-air museum: Boulevard Paris 13 has quickly become a place of pilgrimage for urban art lovers. The works are accessible to all, creating a direct link between the artists and the public. This project redefined the city's relationship with art, integrating street art into the urban landscape in a sustainable way.
A model for other projects: The Boulevard Paris 13 continues to attract new artists and new works. The frescoes evolve over time, some being covered by new creations, others becoming permanent icons. The success of Boulevard Paris 13 has inspired other similar initiatives across Paris and in France, where street art is increasingly recognized as a key part of contemporary urban culture.
