My City My Art: Chennai's vibrant street art captures the soul of the city

Vibrant graffiti, murals and paintings on the city’s walls and pillars add a splash of colour to its landscape. While capturing the city’s essence, such street art also act as a stress-buster, say artists.

Stories captured on city walls have many takers, and Kannagi Nagar is a popular spot for photographers and art enthusiasts. “I have always loved going around the city with my camera and capturing the street art; it is such a vibrant and colorful addition!” says Rakesh, a photography enthusiast.

A love saga between the city and cinema
City walls have always had a long history with cinema, with movie posters and images of film stars painted on walls. This series of paintings and murals of Kamal Haasan from his upcoming film Indian 2 on Marina Loop Road continues the love story between the city and cinema

Street art is a great way to incorporate art into a person's daily life. It enhances the beauty of the spot, creates awareness of art, and pushes people to stop and think about what the painting could mean. Street art has seen an increase in Chennai in the last few years, and it's such a good trajectory
- Hemalatha, painter and sculptor

Street art is usually rooted in local culture, and reflects it. It adds character and vibrancy to a place, and can serve as a striking insight into a place's history and heritage and empower local artists
- Ashmitha, architect