Forbes features Birmingham in article about nationwide mural trend

In a recent article titled “North American Cities Have Gone Mural Mad,” Forbes contributor Gary Stoller referenced Birmingham’s growing collection of murals—specifically the breathtaking 50-foot-tall and 100-foot-wide Willie Mays mural between 1st Avenue North and Morris Ave near 18th Street.

Birmingham’s mural scene referenced by Forbes

According to Stoller, many North American cities have gone “mural mad.”

Although the article didn’t cite any official statistics, it posited that the total number of murals in North America has likely skyrocketed recently.

The article referenced several paintings and mural events across the country, including a five-day festival in Vancouver, Canada and the Willie Mays mural in downtown Birmingham, which was unveiled on June 19, 2024—one day after the legendary baseball star’s passing.

Murals have been popping up left and right in Birmingham over the past few years. In fact, Woodlawn hosted its own festival—the Magic City Mural Festival—in 2022.

What is your favorite mural in Birmingham? Check out parts one, two and three of the Bham Now Mural Guide to learn more and let us know by tagging @bhamnow on Instagram!