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Street Art from The Rebel Bear at 65 Argyle St, Glasgow

Explore the compelling street art of The Rebel Bear, Glasgow’s mysterious muralist blending social commentary with vibrant urban creativity.

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Discover the vibrant street art of The Rebel Bear, a mysterious Glasgow muralist known as the 'Scottish Banksy.' Located at 65 Argyle Street, this artwork reflects themes of politics, love, and social commentary, created by an anonymous artist who dons a pink bear costume. The Rebel Bear’s pieces have gained international recognition and are celebrated for their wit and poignant messages.

A brief summary to Street Art from The rebel bear

  • 65 Argyle St, Glasgow, G2 8BJ, GB
  • Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours for the best visibility and photo opportunities of the mural.
  • Combine this stop with other street art locations in Glasgow’s city centre for a full urban art experience.
  • Respect the artwork by not touching or defacing the mural to help preserve it for others.
  • Check local weather forecasts; Glasgow’s frequent rain may affect outdoor viewing comfort.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the Glasgow Subway to Buchanan Street station, then walk approximately 10 minutes to 65 Argyle Street. Subway tickets cost around £1.50-£3.00 depending on ticket type, and trains run every 5-10 minutes during the day.

  • Bus

    Multiple bus routes serve Argyle Street from Glasgow city centre, with journey times ranging from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point. A single bus fare typically costs £2.00-£3.00. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening service.

  • Walking

    If you are staying nearby in Glasgow city centre, walking to 65 Argyle Street is a pleasant option, taking around 15-20 minutes on mostly flat terrain. The route is accessible and passes through lively urban streets.

Street Art from The rebel bear location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Street Art from The rebel bear

The Enigmatic Artist Behind the Bear

The Rebel Bear is a street muralist based in Glasgow, famed for concealing their identity by performing in a pink bear costume. Often dubbed the 'Scottish Banksy,' this artist has been active for over six years, creating thought-provoking murals across Scotland, London, New York, Calais, Havana, and Mumbai. Their anonymity adds an air of mystery, inviting viewers to focus on the powerful messages embedded in the art rather than the artist themselves.

Art with a Message

The Rebel Bear’s works delve into themes such as politics, love, human emotion, and critiques of modern society’s absurdities. Notable pieces include the iconic 'Fear and Love' mural in Glasgow, depicting a couple lowering their protective masks to share a kiss during the COVID-19 pandemic, symbolizing hope and connection amid crisis. Other murals address topics like social media's influence, freedom, and global issues, often blending humor with sharp social commentary.

Local and Global Impact

While rooted in Glasgow’s urban landscape, The Rebel Bear’s influence extends internationally. Commissions and exhibitions have taken place in prestigious galleries in the UK and the US, and the artist’s work is featured in national museums. Their murals have sparked conversations worldwide, especially during the pandemic, offering solace and reflection through public art.

Distinctive Style and Cultural Significance

The Rebel Bear’s murals are instantly recognizable for their bold imagery and the artist’s unique approach of creating while dressed as a bear. This playful yet poignant persona enhances the impact of the art, making it accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. The works often appear in prominent urban locations, contributing to Glasgow’s rich street art culture and enhancing the city’s vibrant creative scene.

Contemporary Relevance and Controversies

The Rebel Bear’s art does not shy away from controversy, sometimes provoking strong reactions due to its bold themes and imagery. For example, a mural in Edinburgh referencing the Tiananmen Square protests stirred debate for its political implications. Such pieces underscore the artist’s commitment to using street art as a platform for dialogue and social critique.

Experience and Exploration

Visiting the mural at 65 Argyle Street offers a chance to engage with contemporary urban art that challenges and inspires. The location is part of a broader trail of The Rebel Bear’s works throughout Glasgow, inviting exploration of the city’s dynamic street art scene and the stories it tells about society, resilience, and creativity.

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