I’m back on the island of Isla Mujeres in Mexico. It’s been about eight months since I last visited and the talented and creative street artists have been busy!
This time they have outdone themselves with a couple of inspired illusions.
First, the municipal government has commissioned a neat mural of the island of Isla Mujeres itself, next to its iconic sign which is on the Malecon by the water. Not only is the painting beautiful, but there is a neat visual trick where it appears that we are looking down through a break in the hexagonal bricks, onto the island and surrounding ocean.
It’s very cool!
They even mark the spot where you should take a photo:
Nearby is another new piece, inside an archway.
And this one beside the backpacker’s hostel.
This one is a group effort – lining the wall of a school in Las Colonias.
Near Isla 33 is a building that seems to be somewhat abandoned – but is made beautiful by the vibrant green forest and stag.
On the walkway nearby is a hammerhead shark – looking past it we can see the ocean where a live version is no doubt swimming at this moment.
This veterinary clinic has a lovely picture of a mangrove swamp complete with birds (fishers?) and a snake slithering through the branches. Right next to it is a mosaic of animal photos. For a small fee you can have a portrait of your pet commissioned, and hung on the wall. It’s a clever idea and visually appealing.
The long wall along Lopez Mateo street is transformed by vibrant colours of towns and tropical landscapes:
But I’ve saved my favourite new mural for last.
This one is not only stunningly beautiful, but it works across 3-dimensions and multiple layers of masonry, encourages environmental awareness and social responsibility, and hides unsightly garbage, all at once!
Yes, those are actual stacks of garbage waiting to be collected – and somehow they end up looking great.
Let’s zoom in and see the quality of art:
Absolutely brilliant.
Which one is your favourite?
