Chiang Moi’s getting a street art makeover, and you’re invited to join

This week the chaps and chapesses at the local municipality turned their sights to an old favourite corner of the city, Chang Moi, turning out en force to announce a new scheme to revive one of the city’s few remaining canals.

Following the successful regeneration of the southeastern stretch of Mae Kha Canal – cementing its spot on the tourist trail a few years ago, seeing cafes and bars opening along the (now) flowerbed lined stretch – similar hopes are pinned on the quiet back alleys and paths of the waterway’s Chang Moi hood, but using an altogether different approach: street art.

Sure, the idea’s not a new one. Bangkok’s Ong Ang canal makes use of street art in drawing a crowd, so why not try it here as well. 

To get the project underway, Chiang Mai’s most established street artists, designers and art students are all invited to apply to paint their work on the walls that run alongside the canal. And in case you were wondering, yes, the area has been designated an ‘official street art zone.’ 

The goal is to regenerate the Chang Moi Road while giving a fab opportunity for local artists to showcase their work, making space for exchange and learning between artists, the community and tourists. 

The local government says ‘this collaboration will help propel Chang Moi Road back into a Chiang Mai art landmark – a unique street art hub reflecting the city's charm and a key destination for both Thai and international tourists.’

Chang Moi Road is a historic street that once boomed as a commercial centre in Chiang Mai, connecting the city with Kad Luang and long reflecting the lifestyle, culture, and stories of the people of Chiang Mai. Redeveloping the area through contemporary art is classic Chiang Mai and something we can totally get behind.

Artists! To apply to have your work on those walls hit up Chiang Mai Municipality via their website here. The rest of us: watch the space.