If you've walked near McGill University or hiked up Mount Royal lately, you've probably noticed the massive new mural taking shape on the side of a Plateau residential building. The 160-foot tribute to famed painter Jean-Paul Riopelle was unveiled this week, commemorating 100 years since the Quebec artist's birth in the neighbourhood.
Forget the usual silver and red BIXIs this summer, and try to find one of the dozens of eye-catching custom bikes decorated by MURAL Festival street artists that are hitting stations across the city on June 9! Artists Mono Sourcil, Chien Champion, La Charbonne, Aless MC, and Zephyr have transformed 45 bicycles into vibrant, rideable works of art. The BIXI and MURAL collaboration comes as the bike-share service celebrates 50 million trips in Montreal and the street art festival marks its 10th edition.
Urban art is a mainstay on Montreal streets, adding colour and design to the drabbest walls. A new art gallery wants to channel that style into reclaiming used clothing and other salvaged materials. L'Original on Saint-Denis in the Plateau opens on June 3 with a plan to bring together urban artists and upcycling. Not only can you see works by some of the hottest local street artists and muralists, but you can also get your hands on one-of-a-kind clothing items they've painted.