Can some birds on a wall remind Aarhus to create a better future?

by Chiara Fürst & Ibrahim Muhammad

Sitting by the harbour of Aarhus, you might have noticed a splash of purple and orange colours peep out from between machine arms, boat docks and brick buildings. In May, the artwork appeared in Balticagade just like that. Since then, we have passsed it many times on our busy ways to work, the crazy ones among us to their sweaty crossfit class or when treating ourselves with a cardamom bun at Jumbo’s. Seeing it absently, we did not give much thought to what is behind it. Right?

Listen to some fellow Aarhusians and their ideas of what the piece of art is about.

Imagine you are standing in the harbour just like them. Have a guess yourself!

Let’s get closer. Click on the images below to grasp all the details.

We will not keep you in suspense much longer. We finally found someone who knew that there was more to a picture with some children and some birds…

Would you have guessed that the painting wants to emphasize that we should strengthen global partnerships for sustainable development? The mural in Balticagade represents the last one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals – the UN’s universal call to action to create a better future by 2030.

The street art project 17Walls was initiated by hART Unlimited, an art initiative with close ties to international street artists. The goal is to transform the 17 Sustainable Development Goals into 17 iconic murals in Aarhus city centre. The one at Balticagade was created by the Durch artist Telmomiel in May 2023. And it’s just the start. In spring next year, 16 more of the world’s best street artists have accepted the challenge to create a mural each inspired by one of the goals.

The official vernissage will take place in June 2024, after all 17 murals have proudly found their place inver Aarhus C. Artwalks will be offered from then to experience this city, that values art and works together for a sustainable future. Jointly taking action to reach the UN Goals for a better future by 2030 will still be up to us.