Two graffiti artists have transformed a dreary underpass in Bad Bayersoien, Germany, into a colorful showcase of local landmarks, creating an unexpected tourist attraction that has drivers slowing down to take photos. The vibrant mural features iconic village motifs including the local chapel, traditional buildings, and pastoral scenes that capture the essence of this Bavarian community.
The project was initiated by Dario Böttger, a 26-year-old social worker who moved to the village in August. During his daily commute to work at the local kindergarten, Böttger grew tired of walking through the gray, uninspiring underpass near Trahtweg. "It was too gray for me," explained the Peiting native, who decided to approach Mayor Gisela Kieweg with his artistic vision.
Mayor Kieweg embraced the idea enthusiastically, finding it "cool" especially after Böttger presented detailed sketches of his proposed designs. The project required official approval since the underpass belongs to the State Construction Office in Weilheim, which was successfully obtained. Kieweg also secured sponsorship for the initiative, ensuring that the project's estimated cost of 4,000 to 5,000 euros wouldn't burden the municipal budget.
Böttger collaborated with his longtime friend Fabio Sales, a 33-year-old artist who traveled from Natal, Brazil, specifically for this project – marking his first time ever leaving his home country. The two artists first met at a graffiti event in Brazil when Böttger spent a year and a half there on a government scholarship at age 17. Their friendship has endured over the years, and they call themselves the "Osmo-Crew," even naming their daughters with "Osmo" as a middle name.
Over the course of a week, the artistic duo transformed the bland walls into a detailed, colorful reflection of village life. Their mural includes the village barn (Dorfstadl), Eckbichl Chapel, the Metzgerwirt restaurant, the Moor Cinema, and a distinctive red heart by the lake. The artists worked daily after Böttger's kindergarten hours until darkness fell, meticulously crafting each element with attention to local architectural details and cultural significance.
The project initially faced skepticism from residents who were puzzled by the preliminary work. The artists began with basic patterns – hearts and geometric forms that served as guidelines for the actual motifs. This standard graffiti technique caused concern among villagers, who called Mayor Kieweg asking, "What is this supposed to be?" Böttger, who first learned graffiti techniques in school as a teenager, understands this reaction, noting that "graffiti has negative connotations, especially in Germany."
However, public opinion shifted dramatically once the first completed image appeared – a cow that quickly became the favorite motif among passersby. The skepticism that initially greeted the project evaporated as residents saw the quality and local relevance of the artwork. Now the artists receive praise from community members, and some locals even bring them small meals or drop coins in their hat as tokens of appreciation.
The transformation has been so successful that it's affecting local traffic patterns. Cars now slow down as they approach the B23 highway on-ramp, with drivers and passengers taking time to photograph the murals. Even regional buses crawl through the area, allowing passengers to capture images of the artwork through their windows. The underpass has become an unexpected photo opportunity and point of pride for Bad Bayersoien.
Böttger brings considerable experience to the project, having previously completed graffiti initiatives with organizations including the Red Cross, Oberland Schools, and various youth centers. His approach demonstrates how street art can serve as a positive community enhancement tool when properly planned and executed with local input and official approval.
