Tulsa Mural Tour - Self Guided

Tulsa offers a vibrant street art scene that reflects its rich culture and history, providing an engaging way to explore the city. The Downtown Tulsa mural tour encompasses various neighborhoods, with a strong focus on the Tulsa Arts District, where visitors can view noteworthy murals that celebrate local heritage and artistic expression.

One of the standout pieces is a large letter postcard mural by Billy Brakhage, depicting iconic symbols of Tulsa, including the Appeal to the Great Spirit statue and the Philbrook Museum of Art. Nearby, Josh Butts' mural of a homeless veteran addresses social issues, presenting a poignant message alongside a quote from Bob Dylan. Other murals in the area include a tribute to Bloomsday, a vibrant map of local music venues, and a montage celebrating the work of architect Bruce Goff.

The Woody Guthrie mural honors the famous folk singer from Oklahoma, while Día de los Muertos murals celebrate Hispanic heritage with colorful imagery and themes reflecting the Day of the Dead. A series of murals under I-244 showcase Tulsa's complex history, including references to Black Wall Street and hopeful messages about the city's future.

Greenwood, another important neighborhood, features murals that commemorate historic events and figures. A powerful mural dedicated to Black Wall Street captures the prosperity and tragedy of this once-thriving community. Nearby, a mural of Jackie Robinson symbolizes the breaking of racial barriers in sports. The 'History in the Making' mural and the haunting 'Mass Graves This Way' sign speak to the ongoing efforts to acknowledge and address the legacy of the Tulsa Race Massacre.

Additional murals in the area include tributes to local musicians, such as the Bob Wills mural that pays homage to the King of Western swing, and the Leon Russell mural, which features the rock icon with a backdrop of roses. The Blue Dome District is home to numerous murals that encapsulate local history and culture, including those dedicated to Wayman Tisdale and the late Aretha Franklin.

A unique aspect of Tulsa's mural scene is the augmented reality mural known as The Majestic, which creates an interactive experience for viewers. Other murals celebrate the city's early infrastructure achievements and artistic spirit, reflecting a blending of past and present.

Overall, Tulsa's mural tour invites individuals to explore the city's artistic landscape, showcasing diverse themes that promote conversation and community engagement. The murals not only beautify the urban environment but also serve as a canvas for storytelling and cultural expression. Visitors can use provided guidance and maps to navigate this impressive array of artwork scattered throughout the city.