Cheyenne's Hidden Gems Street Art

Over the years, the perception of street art has been transforming from one of undesirable graffiti or vandalism, to sanctioned public works of art that provided civic pride while celebrating local artists and creativity. For a long time, many large cities have been commissioning murals to help give insights into a city’s culture, identity, and neighborhood history. Not only do these murals help with the beautification of a city, it has been shown that murals help boost economic activity by attracting tourists, improving mental health, and instilling a sense of public safety.

In 2015 the Downtown Development Authority in Cheyenne realized the importance and positive impact these murals had on communities. From this understanding, The Downtown Cheyenne Mural Project was created to help improve the walk-ability and appeal of downtown.

The first mural commissioned by the Cheyenne Mural Project was awarded to Jordan Dean of Cheyenne to be painted on the back of the Historic Plains Hotel, 1600 Central Avenue. After 14 days, a 60-foot blue bison playing a guitar was dancing across the wall with a banjo playing golden eagle soaring overhead. There is also a snake, a fish wearing glasses and of course it wouldn’t be complete without a Cowboy hat.

Dan Toro of Laramie was selected to paint the second mural for the Cheyenne Mural Project called “On Stage”, which is also located behind the Plains Hotel. This very fun mural gives a glimpse into what it looks like to be back stage of a performing arts theatre. The curtains are drawn showing a Grand Piano waiting to be played, as the musicians get ready to perform behind the ‘Band’ door.

It is definitely worth going on a scavenger hunt to find these wonderful pieces of art. To help in your endeavor download the Cheyenne Art app. It is free and offers locations to many of the Murals, Bronzes and Boots that adorn our city.