Walking around a touristy beach town, I knew I’d see lots of street musicians, seafood restaurants and souvenir shops selling ocean-themed mugs and towels, but the art was an unexpected thrill.
Here’s a splattering of what my amateur lens captured in what I later learned is the ViBe Creative District.
Great America Number 1: Our Fallen Heroes
Sam Welty of Chesapeake Virginia painted these two murals as a tribute to first responders and all branches of the military.
Virginia has 27 military bases, so it’s not unusual for a low-flying jet to blare by tourists as they tan themselves on the beach. This tribute seems well-placed in a city near several military bases and deserves a photographer who can hold the camera straight.
This model lady was out of place above a portable toilet in a construction area.
As you can see, Madsteez, the artist who painted her, stands out with his color choices and his ability to sign his work clearly. This surfer artist is blind in one eye and in this short video, he explains his superpower and why he paints purple people.
Vibrant Sealife Murals
A restaurant that sounds like a movie. This building demanded attention with its brightly-colored jellyfish floating near bushes and air conditioning units.
I could tell this sea turtle was staring at me from a block away, so I took this extreme, less-than-crisp close-up of my favorite reptile.
Mysterious Word Art
I’m not sure why the Dough Boys have the feels, but I rushed to snap this from a moving car.
Love was so rich and strong here that it distracted me from noticing the name of the restaurant.
This is just the art I stumbled upon when I wasn’t trying.
Next time, I know to look at the ViBe Creative District’s website to explore more of these vibrant murals that burst out of sidewalks, parking lots, and construction zones and get this sun-soaked tourist to appreciate the local vibe.
Karen M. Free 