On Baylor Street, between 9th and 10th Avenue, there are some unfinished condos. At least, that’s what it was in the 80’s. Now, it is the largest graffiti park in Austin. It has been named many things, the most common one being Castle Hills, but you can call it The HOPE Outdoor Gallery, Austin Graffiti Park, or Baylor Street Art Wall. This three-story outdoor art wall started out as a place artists would sneak away to visit so that they could graffiti the walls. The owners of the property, strangely, did not object to it, but saw it as an opportunity to “Keep Austin Weird.” The name Castle Hill was because of the castle found right above it. In 2011, it was officially named The Hope Outdoor Gallery. You need a permit to paint on the walls, though, so you can’t take a can and start spraying. Email murals@hopecampaign.org to get one.
So interesting. Once you get a permit can you graffiti anything you want or does it have to get approved? When will they run out of space? Great post!
Hi Ethan,
Cool place to visit and take pictures. I read that they may be developing that parcel of land in the near future and if so, the graffiti park would have to find a new home. Have you heard an update on what may happen?
From, Laura
Where would be a good place in Portland to have a similar wall? Seems like it could be cool.
Hi Ethan, I really enjoyed learning about this park. You did a really nice job explaining the history of it and the different names.