Look around. This isn’t just a wall. This is Strokar Mural, a testament to Brussels’ vibrant street art scene.
Strokar Inside started as a temporary art gallery. It transformed an old building into a hub for urban art. The space hosted works from around the globe.
The building itself has an interesting past. It was built in 1907. Initially, it was a roller skating rink called Royal Rinking. Many sporting events took place here. In 1924, it became an automobile garage. Later, in 1983, it served as a Delhaize supermarket.
Imagine this supermarket transformed into a street art haven. Alexandra Lambert and Fred Atax, the founders of Strokar, made this vision a reality. Strokar Inside wasn’t just a museum. It was a constantly evolving space.
Inside Strokar Mural, you could find graffiti, murals, and urban photography. There were also live performances and film projections. Strokar aimed to promote street art. It sought to highlight the beauty of this art form.
Many artists displayed their work at Strokar. Some were local Brussels artists. Others came from around the world. You might have seen works by Denis Meyers and Jef Aérosol. International artists like T-Kid and Cope 2 also contributed.
Some artists cleverly used elements of the old supermarket. This blended the past with the present. The art pieces often sparked conversations about consumerism. One French collective, Iretge, even installed an old Volvo filled with waste.
Strokar Inside offered more than just art. It featured a bar, a shop, and even a skate park. The goal was to create a multidisciplinary space. It was intended to attract a diverse audience. The location became a cultural hub.
Strokar hosted the Brussels International Urban Art Fair. This event further promoted street art. It helped raise the profile of artists. It also increased the value of their work.
Sadly, Strokar Inside closed its doors on December 31, 2019. However, its impact on Brussels’ art scene remains. The Strokar project helped to elevate street art. It made it more accessible to the public.
Today, Strokar Mural stands as a reminder of this innovative project. It embodies the spirit of urban art. It continues to inspire creativity. Take a moment to appreciate the art. Reflect on the space that once was. Strokar’s legacy lives on in every brushstroke.