After a successful pilot in 2024, World Street Painting is back with even more artists, more color, and more opportunities to step into the artwork—literally. This year’s event will feature 10 new 3D paintings, created live on-site by artists from around the world.
This unique collaboration between Visit Joplin and the Netherlands-based World Street Painting Foundation is part of a multi-year celebration of the Route 66 Centennial. In total, the project will include 33 3D artworks, making Joplin home to the world’s largest collection of 3D street paintings in one community. The artworks will be preserved through 2027 as part of the extended centennial festivities.
“2025 also marks the 10th anniversary of the World Street Painting Foundation,” says founder Mike Kothuis. “Our goal has always been to make public spaces more beautiful and to bring art directly to the people.”
Street painting is a live performance art where artists create directly on the pavement using chalk or paint. When combined with 3D perspective, it becomes a powerful and playful medium: people appear to float, fly, or fall into illusionary scenes. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the art by stepping into the perfect viewing spot, taking photos, and becoming part of the artwork.
In 2024, three U.S.-based artists laid the foundation with stunning 3D pieces outside the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex. Those works remain on view and will soon be joined by new creations from artists hailing from the United States, the Netherlands, Mexico, Italy, Australia, Japan, France, Poland, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and England. This time at Schifferdecker Park.
Festival Schedule
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Wednesday, June 4 – Site prep & start of painting
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Thursday, June 5 – Painting continues
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Friday, June 6 – Painting continues
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Saturday, June 7 – Official Festival Opening
The festival is presented in cooperation with the Joplin Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Joplin Celebrations Commission, Parks Recreation, and a host of local and regional Route 66 partners.
Whether you’re a local, a traveler on Route 66, or an art enthusiast, this is a rare opportunity to see world-class street art take shape in real time—and become part of the picture.
📍 Location:
Schifferdecker Park
Joplin, Missouri
