See Stunning History as Art in Welland, ON

Rarely in your travels will you come across something as unique as this: an art gallery entirely outdoors. But that's exactly what you'll find with the "Murals of Wellland."

Welland -- made famous because of the Welland Canal -- is home to the largest "open air" art gallery in the world. In 1986, the City of Welland launched the project to beautify the city. Artists from around Ontario, Canada created their works of art on the sides of 28 business buildings. The murals are all based upon a historical theme, and are painted in full color.

With your map of the mural locations in hand, you can see the murals either by car or on foot. In both cases, you'll find the following creations available for viewing -- whenever you choose:

• Sailing ships being pulled through the canal, and traveling at night amid the canal
• The milk business in Welland in the early 1900s
• Culture and economics of the Niagara Peninsula
• History of the Welland Canal and numerous other murals related to his construction
• Welland County Fair trolley that ran from 1910 to 1930
• World War I and the involvement of Welland
• "New World" brick mosaic and painting reflecting new arrivals to Welland
• A trio of historical scenes done in tremendous detail
• Turn-of-the-century wagons and buggies done in a stained-glass effect
• Paintings of old photographs reflecting education in Welland
• Annual triathlon featuring the swimmer, cyclist, and runner
• The 1940, 1958, and 1975 Welland Fair
• Plymouth Cordage Company employees from 1906
• A father, son, and grandson involved in local agriculture
• The Welland Club popular in 1920 with the ever popular "lawn bowling"
• Other modes of transportation in the area
• 1920 tugboats and barges painted amidst a hidden array of artists juggling equipment
• Contribution of women to the Welland work force
• Early commercial life and activities in Welland
• World's largest "paint by number" mural completed by 1,000 people
• Relief mural reflect flora, fauna, and heraldry done by wood carvers

A visit to the mural is a step back in time to see a town, its heritage, and its people combined with a modern presentation as delivered by its interesting presentation. This wonder only adds to the already magnificent town of Welland, known as the "Rose City of the Niagara Peninsula." It is also the location of Niagara College of Applied Arts and Technology -- which makes it no surprise that something like the "Murals of Welland" would evolve.

Why not take a few moments out of your visit to the area and stroll past or drive by the murals and enjoy a small bit of culture!