Street art is an artistic movement that is gaining more and more momentum all over the world. And Benin is no exception to this trend. Indeed, the city of Cotonou, the economic capital of the country, has launched into street art with enthusiasm and creativity.
The project was initiated in 2013 with the Effet graff festival, which transformed the old railroad fence into a colorful fresco stretching 940 meters. On the strength of this success, promoter Laurenson Djihouéssi decided to aim higher by choosing the wall of the port of Cotonou, located on the famous boulevard de la Marina. With its four linear kilometres, this mural should become the longest in the world.
To create this gigantic open-air art gallery, some thirty Beninese and international artists were brought together, including the famous Brazilian Eduardo Kobra. Each brought their personal touch, by staging Africa and Benin through spectacular frescoes. Beninese culture, traditions, deities and joie de vivre are thus represented with talent and creativity.
The initiative has been widely welcomed by the population and visitors to Cotonou. The harbor wall attracts many curious people every day, of all ages and from all walks of life. Some describe the artwork as “3D printed” and “outstandingly beautiful”. For the inhabitants, this mural enhances Benin and demonstrates the pride of belonging to this country.
This ambitious project also aims to turn the walls of Benin into open-air museums. It bears witness to the government’s and the public’s commitment to urban art and artistic expression. This approach makes it possible to highlight the country’s culture and heritage, while offering a unique tourist attraction.
In conclusion, the city of Cotonou in Benin is opening up to street art with the creation of a huge mural on the Boulevard de la Marina. This artistic initiative has met with great success and contributes to the promotion of Beninese culture