Discover Scottsdale’s Street Art Scene: A Colorful Journey Through the City’s Most Iconic Murals and Hidden Masterpieces
Scottsdale Street Art Guide | Top Murals, Public Art & Urban Creativity
Scottsdale is often recognized for its luxury lifestyle, desert beauty, and thriving art galleries—but it also boasts a street art scene that’s quietly transforming the city into a vibrant open-air museum. From the creative alleys of Old Town to large-scale public art installations, Scottsdale’s murals and graffiti-inspired works bring a dynamic energy to its urban spaces. In this guide, we’ll take you on a colorful tour of the city’s most iconic murals, under-the-radar gems, and the artists behind the movement.
1. Old Town Scottsdale: Murals That Tell a Story
Old Town is the heart of Scottsdale’s walkable art experience. While known for its galleries and sculpture gardens, the area is now punctuated with eye-catching murals that reflect local culture, desert landscapes, and the spirit of the Southwest.
- "Welcome to Old Town Scottsdale" by Laura Spalding Best: A postcard-style mural that greets visitors and serves as the perfect photo backdrop.
Tucson artist Jessica Gonzales created this mural on the street-facing wall of the No-Tel Motel at 2425 N. Oracle Road.
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Murals: Look out for several Western-themed pieces near Main Street and Marshall Way that blend history with bold color.
You don’t need a map—just follow the brick-lined sidewalks, and you’ll stumble across vibrant walls around nearly every corner.
Source: experiencescottsdale.com
2. Canal Convergence & Temporary Installations
Every November, the Canal Convergence public art festival brings immersive, often interactive art to the Arizona Canal waterfront in Downtown Scottsdale.
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Large-scale light installations, projection art, and community murals transform the space into an ever-changing art destination.
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Though many works are temporary, they leave a lasting impression and showcase Scottsdale’s role in supporting public art innovation.
This annual event has become a signature moment for artists and audiences who want to experience creativity at the intersection of nature, water, and technology.
3. Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Some of Scottsdale’s most compelling art isn’t found in tourist spots but on the side streets, alleyways, and parking structures of its commercial districts.
The Bell, The Flower and The Wash by Ilan Averbuch. Photo: Scottsdale Arts.
Source: scottsdalepublicart.org
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Roosevelt & Goldwater area: Discover smaller murals from emerging artists—perfect for those who appreciate subtle, artistic storytelling.
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5th Avenue Shops: Artistic facades and custom signage reflect the personality of each business and offer a creative atmosphere for shoppers.
Exploring these areas reveals a quieter, more intimate side of Scottsdale’s artistic expression.
4. Scottsdale Public Art Program: Art Beyond Walls
Managed by Scottsdale Arts, the Scottsdale Public Art Program goes far beyond murals. From installations like "The Doors" at Scottsdale Waterfront to “Knight Rise” by James Turrell at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, public art here is experiential, educational, and deeply rooted in community engagement.
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Over 100 permanent public artworks are spread across the city.
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Free art walks and self-guided tours are available, making it easy to explore the city’s creative infrastructure.
This program reflects Scottsdale’s long-standing investment in integrating art into everyday life.
5. Local Artists Making Their Mark
Scottsdale’s street art wouldn’t exist without the talented individuals turning blank walls into cultural canvases.
- Maggie Keane: Known for expressive, hyperrealistic portraits—some of which are tucked away in unexpected locations around Scottsdale.
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Lalo Cota: While more prominent in Phoenix, Cota’s influence and stylistic work can also be seen in Scottsdale’s art scene, blending Chicano culture with vibrant surrealism.
Supporting local artists means supporting Scottsdale’s unique visual identity. Many murals are commissioned by businesses or facilitated by art organizations, creating a collaboration between artist, space, and audience.
Art That Moves with the Desert Wind
Scottsdale’s street art isn’t just decorative—it’s a reflection of the city’s past, present, and future. It tells stories, sparks conversations, and transforms everyday walls into something meaningful. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or have lived here for years, taking time to discover Scottsdale’s murals offers a new way to see and connect with the city.
