Lisbon's Stunning Murals Compete for Global Street Art Recognition

Lisbon Competes with Four Murals for Global Urban Art Recognition

Lisbon is once again in the running for the Street Art Cities ‘Best Of’ Awards, featuring four remarkable murals. Last year's winner was the Cellist of Fene, painted by SFHIR in A Coruña.

Origin, by Vhils and Bordalo II - Francisco Romão Pereira

To discover the highlighted murals, one must visit Xabregas, Buraca, and Alto de São João. In Xabregas, Afonsoul and the duo Vhils and Bordalo II are part of the long-term event Cor de Chelas, which has transformed the landscape of Chelas Road. Afonsoul is competing with Inner Feeling, inspired by the desire to highlight freedom and equity for women on International Women’s Day. Meanwhile, the collaboration between Vhils and Bordalo II in the mural Origin enters the Expert Choice category.

Murals in Odair and Pina Neighborhoods

Moving to Amadora, Ricardo Romero stands out with his mural Partnership for the Goals, depicting daily efforts to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations. This mural was painted in June in Zambujal, a neighborhood that recently mourned the loss of Odair Moniz, a Cape Verdean citizen shot by police.

Partnership for the Goals, by Ricardo Romero - DR

Romero stated that the mural represents and honors the African communities in the neighborhood and their dialogue with other communities. The piece illustrates a strong sense of mutual aid and cooperation found in Zambujal.

The list concludes with a mural by Sepher Awk, his first large-scale work, completed in December. Titled Door of the Valley, it references the Valley Neighborhood, where a tragic triple homicide occurred in October.

Door of the Valley, Sepher Awk - DR

Awk’s mural aims to reflect what many overlook, overshadowed by the negative connotation attached to such places. It symbolizes a door inspired by the world, transcending territorial borders and social prejudices.

Carlos Pina was recently commemorated with a mural by Vile in the Vale neighborhood, although it does not enter the international competition.

Carlos Pina, by Vile - DR (via Vile)

Voting for the Street Art Cities Awards 2024 is open until January 31, across three categories, available on the initiative's page. Last year, Spain dominated the awards, showcasing vibrant street art.