Jet-Set Creativity: Artistic Adventures in Global Destinations
In the world of travel, there is a vibrant intersection where creativity and adventure meet. For the artistic souls and those seeking inspiration, exploring global destinations can offer a world of artistic wonders.
From vibrant street art to iconic museums, let Fused take you on a journey of artistic adventures in some of the most captivating destinations around the globe.
CHICAGO
It seems that no trip to Chicago can happen without taking a selfie next to Anish Kapoor’s giant sculpture ‘Cloud Gate’. Affectionately known as ‘The Bean’ the public artwork has become synonymous with the Chicago experience.
Inspired by liquid mercury, it is one of the world’s largest permanent outdoor art installations. Its stainless-steel surface reflects the activity and lights of the park and surrounding city skyline, inviting visitors to touch and interact with its mirror-like surface and see their image reflected from a variety of perspectives. If insta selfies are your thing then this is the spot for that quintessential shot. ‘The Bean’ is an icon of the city and a wonderful piece of outdoor art that members of the public continually engage.
PHILADELPHIA
Philadelphia is home to the USA’s largest public art program, dedicated to the belief that creativity can ignite change and offer travellers to the city the opportunity to see outdoor murals on guided and self-guided tours, by foot or by segway.
Over 4,000 murals can be found throughout the City of Philadelphia, making it the “Mural Capital of the World.” Mural Arts Philadelphia started as an anti-graffiti program in 1984 and has grown to be an international leader having activated some of Philadelphia’s most unassuming locations and repurposing public spaces.
FREIBURG
E-WERK, an industrial building originally constructed in 1900, has evolved into a beacon of interculturality and fine art. It not only hosts over 400 dance, theatre, music, and fine art events annually, but it also serves as a workspace for 30 artists, the Freiburg acting college, the ‘bewegungs-art’ school of contemporary dance, and the ‘Die Schönen’ musical theatre. Also, Freiburg’s public spaces are adorned with captivating works of art that are a testament to its vibrant soul. From Henry Moore’s ‘Reclining Figure’ to Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen’s giant ‘Garden Hose’.
BERLIN
Berlin, a hub of creativity, offers a thriving street art scene. Take a street art tour to discover the city’s ever-evolving graffiti and murals including a must-visit to the East Side Gallery, a section of the famous Berlin Wall that has been transformed into an open-air art gallery, showcasing powerful political and social artworks.
CAPE TOWN
Cape Town is a melting pot of cultures, and its art scene reflects this vibrant diversity. Discover the colorful neighborhood of Bo-Kaap, known for its brightly painted houses. Explore the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, showcasing the works of talented African artists.
AMSTERDAM
Graffiti and Street Art enthusiasts put down your spray cans and rejoice! Amsterdam now boasts a second museum that pays homage to the vibrant world of street art—and it’s a treat!
Nestled within a colossal warehouse in the former shipbuilding hub of NDSM, STRAAT offers an impressive 86,000 square feet of exhibition space inside. Its exterior is adorned with a vibrant array of murals, including a striking kaleidoscope-like portrait of a radiant Anne Frank by the renowned Brazilian street art maestro Eduardo Kobra.
In contrast to the Moco Museum in the city, which highlights well-known big hitters such as Banksy and Keith Haring, STRAAT delves into the realm of pioneering and budding artists. Its collection boasts over 130 creators from 32 different countries, forming a robust collection of more than 150 artworks. These pieces inhabit the expansive industrial expanse, suspended from steel girders and dispersed across the concrete ground. While loosely categorised into five themes, the true value lies in wandering freely and pausing at whatever artwork captures your attention. So get those camera phones at the ready; its’ an ‘insta’ haven!
KYOTO
Step into a world of tranquility and find artistic inspiration in Kyoto. Explore the traditional Japanese art of ikebana (flower arrangement) or participate in a tea ceremony. Visit the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji Temple, a golden pavilion surrounded by lush gardens, and find inspiration in its harmonious beauty.
QATAR
Since 2011 the Qatari government have been spending a huge amount of money getting big names in the art world to make new work for the country’s collection. On display in parks, significant outdoor sites and venues, hotel facades and foyers, bustling souks, and even the desert, there are impressive large-scale works being unveiled at an eye-popping rate.
Beyond the galleries and museums creativity is at the foundation of the mass expansion of the capital. Everywhere you visit in Doha you’ll see examples of design flair – buildings are full of curves with architects using the natural environment as inspiration or the region’s history and culture as key design features.
SEATTLE
Whether it’s a stroll around a must-visit museum, a night of revelry at an iconic music venue or catching a bucket list performance at the ballet, Seattle’s arts scene is a force to be reckoned with.
Through compelling exhibits, MOHAI is at the heart of Seattle’s culture, offering visitors an insight into the Puget Sound region’s extensive history. From the Ground Up: Black Architects and Designers explores the past, present and future of architectural talent, whilst educating guests about pioneering creations from black architects throughout history, from ancient temples to soaring, modern skyscrapers.
LISBON
Lisbon is renowned as one of Europe’s most picturesque capitals, steeped in history with neighbourhoods boasting beautiful tile-covered buildings, stunning rooftop views and atmospheric cobblestone streets, but the Portuguese capital is also home to a world-class urban art scene.
A melting pot of creativity, both local and international artists have chosen Lisbon to be their canvas, with many of the city’s streets adorned with murals and works by renowned creatives including Vhils, Odeith, PichiAvo, and Bordallo II.
PARIS
The City of Art and Love: Paris, renowned for its timeless charm, has long been a magnet for artists. Dive into the vibrant art scene by visiting the iconic Louvre Museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa. Explore the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre, where the likes of Picasso and Van Gogh once roamed.
LEIPZIG
The East German city of Leipzig, in the state of Saxony, has become revitalised over the past few years for its vibrant arts scene thanks partly to its cheap rents and studio spaces that are bringing an influx of young creative migration into the city; creating a dynamic art scene that’s enjoying an excellent reputation worldwide.
From the industrial areas and disused factories (which are now turned into creativity hubs) where people have experimented to make their surroundings better to the mix of architecture in the city centre – there’s a wide range of cultural activities available at any given time to discover.
The prime site for artists in Leipzig, the SPINNEREI, is an impressive contemporary artist platform housed in an unconventional space. Since its decommissioning in 1992, Europe’s largest cotton spinning mill has been turned into a cosmopolitan centre of art.
MARBELLA
The art scene in Marbella is diverse and thriving, with galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional works of art.
Nestled in the heart of the city the Picasso Museum Malaga is a cultural treasure trove that pays homage to the life and work of one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. From the moment you step inside this enchanting palace-turned-museum, you’re transported to a world of creativity, innovation, and boundless imagination – a world that’s uniquely Picasso’s.
The museum’s collection spans Picasso’s entire artistic career, from his early sketches and paintings to his later experimental works. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and arranged in chronological order, allowing you to witness the artist’s evolution over time. Along the way, you’ll encounter some of his most iconic masterpieces, including ‘La Vie,’ ‘Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,’ and ‘The Three Dancers.’
PITTSBURGH
For a small city Pittsburgh’s museums and galleries are first rate.
Hey, you’re in Pittsburgh so a visit to the Warhol Museum is an absolute must. Set inside an old warehouse, this seven floor temple to the work of the native Pittsburgher and king of pop art is the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist, and houses thousands of iconic works spanning across, printing, drawing, photography, sculpture, film and floaty silver clouds.
The museum sheds a remarkable light on the pop artist luminary, his creative processes and his legacy. It includes many of his seminal works, such as the Brillo Box sculptures and Elvis paintings, as well as rotating exhibitions that deep dive into the collection.
Contemporary artists are showcased who continue to explore Warhol’s lasting connection and influence worldwide.
BRISTOL
Bristol is renowned as the birthplace of Banksy, but its street art scene extends far beyond his work. Although some of Banksy’s earlier pieces have been removed, you can still discover some around the city, such as the iconic ‘Well Hung Lover’ on Frogmore Street. Additionally, Bristol hosts Upfest the largest free street art festival in the UK.
SAN DIEGO
The creative set will find a paradise in Chicano Park, full of eye-catching murals celebrating San Diego’s hispanic culture; it’s a cultural street-art must-see if you’re in the area. Started in the early Seventies, Chicano Park was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2017. Located under the San Diego-Coronado Bridge overpass, the urban park is home to more than 80 murals painted in vibrant colours on the bridge’s pillars.
MEXICO CITY
Immerse yourself in the vibrant and rich art culture of Mexico City. Stroll through the streets adorned with colorful murals by renowned artists like Diego Rivera. Visit Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul, her former home-turned-museum, for a glimpse into her life and artistic legacy.
ROTTERDAM
Art Rotterdam is regarded as the Netherlands’ leading international fair in the field of new art.
The busy annual event takes place every first weekend of February turning the entire city into a creative force of culture. The main art fair, Art Rotterdam, (hub of the Art Rotterdam Week) is held in the stunning UNESCO-listed Van Nelle Factory which forms the backdrop for the latest developments in the visual arts. Focusing on young art, with many national and international galleries and a dedicated film and video art section, the event is split down and curated into both mixed gallery displays and solo focused stands.
UZBEKISTAN
The Central Asian Republic of Uzbekistan is no doubt a wild card suggestion, but if you’re looking for stunning backdrops where you can pose to your heart’s content, you’d have to go a long way to beat it. You won’t find tropical beaches or swanky hotels, but the glittering UNESCO sites of the Silk Road — not to mention the fantastic Soviet architecture, some jaw dropping landscapes, and thriving local culture..
