Montevideo. A Cultural City, Receptive to Urban Art and Tourism

This chapter focuses on analyzing the street art scene in Montevideo, with the aim of understanding the development of these creative practices in the city. The first objective is to explore the context of Montevideo as a prominent place for graffiti and street art, examining its evolution from simple forms to more complex artistic expressions. While there are consolidated and visible spaces for urban art, the efforts of cultural programmers to expand them show that urban art tourism generates opportunities for new tourist zones. In addition, tensions arise between the city, tourism, and urban art, including debates about preservation and the role of street art in sustainable tourism. Street art revitalizes the city by attracting tourists and residents, fostering a sense of belonging and pride among residents, and promoting economic development and social inclusion through community initiatives. In a way, it has become a key tool for projecting a positive image of the city and empowering neighborhoods and their communities.