Transforming Sacramento Through Public Art
Sacramento has emerged as a vibrant canvas for public art, largely due to the transformative impact of the Wide Open Walls Sacramento festival. Since its inception in 2016, this annual celebration has redefined the city’s visual identity by turning blank building exteriors into stunning murals that showcase the creativity, diversity, and passion of artists from around the world.
A Mission to Activate and Connect
The festival began with a powerful goal: to activate underutilised spaces through public art and foster a stronger sense of community. Over the years, it has attracted an impressive mix of local, national, and international muralists who have left their mark on Sacramento’s streets. With more than 600 murals completed to date, Wide Open Walls Sacramento has created a citywide gallery that is open to everyone, all year round.
Building Community Through School Engagement
More than just an art initiative, the festival has become a vehicle for social connection, education, and civic pride. Programs like WOW: US (Wide Open Walls Uplifting Schools) bring murals directly into school campuses, creating unique artistic environments that engage students and staff alike. Over 200 school murals have been completed, and each one reflects the spirit of its campus and the voices of its community.
KOLAS: Supporting Art and Culture in Sacramento
KOLAS, a proud supporter of local culture and artistic innovation, recognises the significance of events like Wide Open Walls Sacramento. As a cannabis retailer deeply rooted in the Sacramento community, KOLAS continues to support platforms that uplift creative voices and contribute to the cultural fabric of the city. Whether through partnerships or by simply highlighting local art in their dispensaries, KOLAS demonstrates that business can go hand in hand with civic engagement and creative advocacy.
A Boost to Local Economy and Tourism
The impact of the festival also reaches into Sacramento’s economic and tourism sectors. Art lovers travel from around the country to witness the murals firsthand, boosting local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and retail shops. With events like artist talks, public mural tours, and live performances, the festival brings an energy and vibrancy that lasts far beyond the paint drying on the walls.
Murals That Spark Conversation
In addition to beautifying neighbourhoods, the murals often tackle serious issues such as mental health, social justice, and disability rights. Works like Shepard Fairey’s tribute to Johnny Cash—calling attention to mass incarceration—or the mural created for Disability Rights California are strong examples of how art can be both beautiful and thought-provoking.
A Lasting Message of Inclusivity and Inspiration
The lasting message of Wide Open Walls Sacramento is clear: art is for everyone, and it belongs in the streets, where it can inspire, challenge, and unite. In this shared public space, creativity blossoms and community thrives—values that KOLAS is proud to support and celebrate alongside Sacramento’s thriving art scene.
