Marina Boulev’art Gallery

Marina Boulev'art Gallery: an open-air museum in the heart of Cotonou

Recently inaugurated, the Marina Boulev'art Gallery project in Cotonou is presented as an "open-air museum" located on the Boulevard de la Marina. Ambitious and innovative, it aims to become the longest graffiti wall in the world, offering a unique platform for artistic expression and urban culture in Benin. The project features vibrant frescoes that tell the story of the country's history and deep-rooted values, while fitting in with the Government's Programme d'Actions (2021-2026) to promote the arts.

The Marina Boulev'art Gallery is much more than just an exhibition space; it's a meeting place where artists, passers-by and locals can interact and share around art. The murals that adorn the wall illustrate a variety of themes, from ancestral traditions to contemporary challenges, creating a dialogue between past and present.

As part of this initiative, the organizers have expressed their wish to see the project extended to other towns in Benin, enabling a multitude of artists to participate in this artistic movement. The concept echoes a broader commitment to culture and national identity. Drawing on Benin's rich heritage, the project aims to reinforce a sense of belonging and encourage cultural pride.

The gallery also focuses on involving young people in the arts, encouraging them to express their vision of the world through graffiti. Local artists are invited to use the space to tell their stories and share their struggles.

This innovative project, with its strong message about creativity and collective memory, illustrates the importance of art in building a modern and dynamic identity for Benin. The Marina Boulev'art Gallery thus asserts itself as a symbol of cultural renaissance, promoting artistic diversity and strengthening the link between generations.

Photo credit: Presidency of the Republic of Benin