Wow. What an opening.
On Saturday, June 6, visitors gathered at 1717 W. 7th Street to celebrate the opening of the newest World Street Painting gallery. With the addition of 16 new artworks, Joplin is now home to the world’s largest open-air 3D street painting gallery, featuring 29 interactive 3D street paintings spread across three locations.
Created by artists from ten countries, the new gallery celebrates the Route 66 Centennial through stories of travel, culture, nostalgia, history, and imagination. Visitors are invited not only to view the artworks, but to step inside them, become part of the illusion, and create their own Route 66 memories.
The 2026 Artists and Artworks
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Kerim Musanovic – Chain of Rocks
Inspired by the iconic Chain of Rocks Bridge crossing the Mississippi River, this artwork transforms a vintage Route 66 postcard into a splash-filled adventure. Climb onto the floating tire and let the waves carry you through one of the most memorable crossings along the Mother Road.
France
Jean Marc Navello – Bonnie & Clyde
Inspired by the legendary outlaw couple, this artwork imagines a giant 66-dollar reward note featuring Route 66 landscapes and the slogan “In Road We Trust.” Grab the cash, hold the wanted poster, or pose together as Bonnie and Clyde in this larger-than-life love story.
Germany
Melina Berg – Walking with the Dogs
A cheerful vintage postcard from Route 66 comes to life. Take hold of the dogs’ leashes, stroll along the sidewalk lined with classic license plates, and send your own greetings from the Mother Road.
Italy
Fabio Fedele – Robot Connection
Two giant robots pull on opposite ends of a rope representing Route 66. Despite their differences, the road keeps them connected. Sit on either robot, choose a side, or bring friends together and become part of the connection.
India
Sayak Mitra – Bison
The American bison has long been a symbol of strength, survival, and spiritual significance. This artwork celebrates its place in Indigenous cultures and American history. Stand beside the majestic animal and become part of its story.
Japan
Canaco Matsumoto – Take a Ride on the Bike
Route 66 is best experienced together. Hop onto the bicycle and join a joyful journey that celebrates friendship, connection, and discovering new places side by side.
Mexico
Roberto Carlos Trevino Rodriguez – Jukebox
Music has always been part of the Route 66 experience. This giant jukebox celebrates the soundtrack of the Mother Road, inviting visitors to step inside a world of classic tunes, nostalgia, and road trip memories.
The Netherlands
Leon Keer – Exist
Between “exit” and “exist” lies a single letter—and an entire journey. This thought-provoking artwork invites visitors to pause, reflect, and become part of a playful visual illusion about life, choices, and the roads we take.
Maureen Kolhoff – Spaghetti Red
Inspired by local flavors and Joplin’s famous chili traditions, this oversized meal turns comfort food into an interactive experience. Sip through the straw, scoop up a giant spoonful, and enjoy every bite.
Ruben Poncia – Nostalgia
A colorful celebration of roadside America, filled with classic Route 66 icons, attractions, vehicles, and memories. Climb aboard, strike a pose, and take a ride through the nostalgia of the Mother Road.
Remko van Schaik – Muscle Car
Nothing captures the spirit of Route 66 like a classic American muscle car. Step into this vintage travel poster and imagine yourself cruising across the country in search of the next great adventure.
United States
Chris Carlson – Neon Cowboy
Inspired by the glowing neon signs that once lit up Route 66, this cowboy celebrates the golden age of the American road trip. Step into the scene and become part of a bright and colorful roadside memory.
Naomi Haverland – Dino
One of the most recognizable roadside icons along Route 66 is Sinclair’s famous green dinosaur, affectionately known as DINO. First introduced in 1930, the giant Apatosaurus became a symbol of American road trips. Climb onto DINO’s back and become part of a Route 66 tradition that has delighted travelers for generations.
Jan Riggins – Cadillac Bull
Inspired by the Texas Panhandle and the famous Cadillac Ranch, this artwork combines the spirit of the open range with Route 66 history. Step into the scene and meet a larger-than-life helper from the American West.
Olivia Riggins – Grand Falls
Known as Missouri’s largest continuously flowing waterfall, Grand Falls is one of the state’s hidden treasures. Step into the rushing water and experience the natural beauty that has drawn visitors for generations.
Tracy Lee Stum – End of Route 66
After crossing eight states and nearly 2,500 miles, Route 66 ends at the Santa Monica Pier. Relax by the pool, dip your toes in the water, and celebrate reaching the finish line of America’s most iconic road trip.
Visit the Gallery
The 2026 gallery joins the existing collections at the Cornell Complex and Schifferdecker Park, creating a unique Route 66 experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
The world’s largest open-air 3D street painting gallery is now open and free to visit year-round.
Come explore. Take photos. Become part of the art.
Locations
📍 Cornell Complex – 212 E. 7th Street
📍 Schifferdecker Park – 504 S. Schifferdecker Avenue
📍 1717 W. 7th Street