Silver Spring, Maryland is home to over 50 pieces of street art. Street art refers to visual art that has been created in a public space outside of your typical art venues. Here is a brief list of where to find some of the most interesting street art in Silver Spring.
A Brushstroke of DiscoveryÂ
When artist Narcissus Quagliata was hired to create the 170-foot outside mural on the Discovery Communications Headquarters Building, he was given the opportunity to live on in Silver Spring history forever. The vibrant painting was done on enamel overlaying steel. This piece includes a variety of art forms and focuses on our planet's history. You can find this unique street art at 8500 Colesville Road.
The Hand
The Hand is a sculpture with a story. It was created by artist Ray Kaskey with help from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It's a take on the story of Noah and the Ark from the Bible and was created based on the part in the story where Noah releases the doves from the arc. The giant bronze hand can be found at 1325 East-West Highway.
Botero BallerinasÂ
This beautiful kinetic sculpture, created for The Premier Apartment complex, is moved by wind. It was made to celebrate life and the sense of community. The sculptures are made of steel and move with any breeze. They show off beautiful lights and evoke the delicate feeling of the feminine form. Symbolizing the beauty of a ballerina and human interaction, the Botero Ballerinas can be found at 8711 Georgia Avenue.
East/West BeaconÂ
This towering 35-foot high sculpture was designed and created by the artist Ray King to greet the busy travelers on the East/West Highway. The illuminated, freestanding piece is constructed of stainless steel and holographic glass. It's laminated with a light-refracting film that glows a beautiful iridescent color. This brilliantly designed beacon can be found driving down the highway or in person at 1200 East/West Highway.
Acorn Park
All that's left of Francis Preston Blair's estate is the lovely Acorn Park. It's nestled up against the Silver Spring Discovery Building. There's a small park, a gazebo, and a collection of murals. The murals consist of five different panels created by the artist Mame Cohalon. The Caldor Company restored the park and gazebo and these can be found at 1190 East-West Highway.
CoastlineÂ
Coastline, also known as the Wave Pool, is not only a piece of street art but also an educational tool. This work was commissioned by Foulger Pratt Companies and created by Jim Sanborn. The water environment replicates a 65-foot coastline with waves so you can envision the workings of a coastline. You can find this piece at 1301 East-West Highway.
There are so many different works of art in the area that allow you to glimpse into the mind of an artist. We hope that if given the chance, you choose to check out some of the lovely pieces of interesting street art in Silver Spring.


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Elvert Barnes