Written by Alisha Alam Ansari
Kolkata, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions, has a new canvas that’s been transforming its urban landscape – the streets. The city’s walls, once dull and grey, are now bursting with color and creativity, thanks to the vibrant street wall arts that have taken over the city’s streets.
From the narrow alleys of North Kolkata to the bustling streets of the city center, street art has become an integral part of Kolkata’s urban identity. The city’s walls are now a canvas for local and international artists, who use their art to express themselves, tell stories, and spark conversations.
For many artists, street art is a way to express themselves freely, without the constraints of traditional art spaces.
‘Not just an art, but a movement’
Sayam Porey, known as Sam, is a self-taught graffiti writer and muralist from Howrah, Kolkata, who turned his hobby into a profession in 2019. His vibrant street art, often addressing social issues like women’s abuse, drug addiction, and cybercrime, aims to evoke raw emotions and raise awareness. “Unlike conventional banners, Sam’s murals capture the pain and mental state behind these issues, using bold colors and his signature style to communicate powerfully”.
Kolkata’s street art is not just about aesthetics; it’s also a reflection of the city’s soul, energy, its creativity, and its passion. (Photo by Alisha Alam Ansari)
A passionate advocate for street art, Sam sees it as a language of expression, not vandalism. “We love walls. We want to change their point of view,” he says. Despite challenges like limited community support, weather, and wall conditions, he funds his own projects and paints in places like Ahiritola Putul Bari, Lake Garden’s subway, with police permission ensuring protection. His work, often freestyle or sketched, reflects his feelings and thrives on the adrenaline of creation.
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While commercial projects sometimes limit artistic freedom, Sam’s eight years of experience have earned him trust. He navigates the balance between creativity and avoiding controversy, adhering to street rules: only better art can replace existing work. As Kolkata embraces street art’s evolution, Sam continues to transform walls into canvases of change, proving that graffiti is not just art—it’s a movement.
‘Street art is a way to connect with people directly’
“Street art is a way to connect with people directly,” says Ritam, a local street artist. “It’s a way to share my thoughts, my emotions, and my experiences with the world.”
Ritam’s art is a reflection of his surroundings, with themes ranging from social justice to environmental issues. His murals are a testament to the power of street art to inspire and provoke.
Kolkata’s street art scene is not just about individual artists; it’s a community-driven movement. (Photo by Alisha Alam Ansari)
Kolkata’s street art is not just about aesthetics; it’s also a reflection of the city’s soul, energy, its creativity, and its passion. The art is often a commentary on the city’s social, cultural, and economic issues, from poverty and inequality to environmental degradation and social justice.
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Kolkata’s street art scene is not just about individual artists; it’s a community-driven movement. Artists, activists, and locals come together to create, share, and appreciate street art.
While Kolkata’s street art scene is thriving, it’s not without its challenges. Vandalism, lack of recognition, and limited resources are just a few of the hurdles that artists face.
However, the opportunities are vast. Street art has the power to transform urban spaces, to inspire creativity, and to bring people together.
Street art has the power to transform urban spaces, to inspire creativity, and to bring people together. (Photo by Alisha Alam Ansari)
Kolkata’s street art scene is a new era for the city’s art scene. It’s a movement that’s inclusive, diverse, and vibrant.
As the city’s walls continue to evolve, one thing is clear – street art is here to stay. And with it, a new chapter in Kolkata’s artistic history is being written.
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As you walk through the city’s streets, you’ll be struck by the vibrant colors, the bold statements, and the powerful messages. You’ll see the city’s soul reflected in its walls, and you’ll be inspired by the creativity and the passion of its artists.
Kolkata’s street art scene is a journey worth taking. It’s a journey that will take you through the city’s streets, its alleys, and its hearts. It’s a journey that will leave you inspired, energized, and eager to be a part of this vibrant movement.
