Pixel IDF Street Art Ambassador
Oberkampf
The Oberkampf district, located in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, has become over the years one of the high places of street art in the capital. Known for its bohemian and artistic atmosphere, Oberkampf has attracted many urban artists, turning its streets into an open-air gallery. Here is an overview of the history and evolution of street art in Oberkampf.
The Origins of Street Art in Oberkampf
An artistic district: Since the 1980s and 1990s, Oberkampf has become a favourite place for artists, musicians and creators. With its many bars, cafes, and concert halls, the district quickly attracted a young and creative population, conducive to the development of urban art.
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Early works: Street art began to appear on the streets of Oberkampf during the 1990s. The first graffiti and stencils, created by anonymous or emerging artists, multiplied on the walls of the neighborhood, gradually transforming the urban landscape.
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The M.U.R. (Modular, Urban, Reactive)
Creation of the M.U.R. (2007): One of the most significant events for street art in Oberkampf was the creation of the M.U.R., an open-air exhibition space located at 107 rue Oberkampf. Initiated by the association Le M.U.R., this modular space has been dedicated to artistic expression in the form of ephemeral frescoes.
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How the M.U.R. works: The principle of the M.U.R. is simple but innovative - every fortnight, a new work is created by an urban artist on a 24 m² panel. These temporary murals are then erased to make way for the next, creating a constant stream of new creations.​
​Outstanding Artists and Works
Iconic Artists: Many renowned artists have participated in M.U.R., including Jef Aérosol, C215, Invader, Miss.Tic, Shepard Fairey (Obey), and many more. Each work is an opportunity for these artists to express themselves freely while contributing to the visual identity of the neighbourhood.
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Spread on walls: Outside of the M.U.R., street art quickly spread to the adjacent streets, with artwork appearing on facades, doors, and sidewalks. Oberkampf has thus become a real laboratory for urban artists, who find there a free and accessible field of expression.
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The Cultural Impact of Street Art in Oberkampf
An attraction for art lovers: Oberkampf is now a must-see destination for street art lovers, both Parisians and tourists. Walks in the district allow you to discover varied and often surprising works, which evolve over time.
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A laboratory of creativity: The neighborhood is also a place of experimentation for artists, who test new techniques and new ideas. This creative dynamic has made Oberkampf an incubator for street art, where trends and artistic movements often emerge before spreading elsewhere.
