Transforming walls into pieces of art in Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia has blossomed into a vibrant cultural hub with the conclusion of the 5th International Meeting of Muralists at the End of the World, EMUSH 2024. Alba’s Vení al Color (Let’s Colour) program supported the festival, transforming the world’s southernmost city into an open-air art gallery, which celebrates its 140th anniversary with murals that weave together the rich tapestry of its history and the vibrant essence of its community.

The power of art and community

In a remarkable fusion of art and community spirit, Ushuaia concluded the 5th International Meeting of Muralists at the End of the World, also known as EMUSH 2024.

In line with the 140th anniversary celebrations, the event featured stunning murals that offered a deep dive into the Fuegian culture, spotlighting its folklore, natural beauty, and renowned locals. For this Let’s Colour initiative, AkzoNobel also donated 640 liters of Alba paint.

From March 9th to 16th, 2024, eleven distinguished artists transformed the city walls into a dynamic exhibition of color and culture. Consisting of ten local talents from across Argentina and one guest artist from Brazil, these artists each brought their unique perspectives and artistic skills to the city, turning it into a vibrant open-air gallery.

Enriching lives and empowering heritage

Belén Molina, Secretary of Culture and Education of Ushuaia, highlighted the growth of this initiative under Mayor Walter Vuoto’s administration. She emphasized its role in transforming Ushuaia into a beacon of public art. 

This year, a special mural commemorated Argentina’s 120 years of continuous presence in Antarctica, highlighting the historical and environmental connections that shape the city.

Fernando Domingues, General Director of Decorative Paints at AkzoNobel for the Southern Cone, expressed his pride in participating, commenting, “Color has transformative power in people’s lives, and for us it is an honor to participate in initiatives like this in which the talent of the artists, the commitment of the authorities, and the support of the neighbors to make their city a better place are evident. Being present at the city’s anniversary with our Let’s Colour program, through which we transform hundreds of places around the world with passion, protection, and paint, makes us proud and excited. We wish that at every turn the community will be reminded of the incredible city they live in, captured in the open-air works of art that shape EMUSH 2024.”

Expanding Ushuaia’s artistic legacy

The EMUSH 2024 murals will join over 300 existing artworks in Ushuaia, each telling part of the city’s soul and story. From depictions of legendary tales like the “Legend of the Sun and the Moon” to contemporary reflections such as “Lucinda’s Window”, each piece will contribute to a larger tapestry of local lore and modern aspirations.

The festival also included the “Beyond the Walls” talks at the Ego Pereda Foyer, where artists shared their techniques and inspirations, further connecting with the community.

The city invites residents and visitors alike to witness this transformation and be inspired by the stories painted on every corner, proving once again that Ushuaia is not just a place at the end of the world, but a vibrant cultural hub on the brink of artistic revolution.

Find out more about Alba in Argentina here.