For Spaniards, this event became a true source of pride: the country’s street art once again attracted global attention. A mural created by artist Murfin in Fuenlabrada was recognized as one of the top three in the world. Such recognition not only elevates the prestige of Spanish artists but also changes attitudes toward urban art as a whole.
The work, titled “Niños Perdidos I,” adorns the façade of a residential building at Tesillo 1 in Fuenlabrada. This graffiti made it to the final of a prestigious international competition that annually selects the most outstanding examples of street art. This year, a jury comprised of street art experts, artists, researchers, journalists, and public figures awarded third place to the Spanish artist.
Global competition
The winner of the competition was the artist KLE, who decorated the city of Kalamata in Greece with a vibrant depiction of singer Maria Callas surrounded by branches and birds. Second place went to Pijanista for the piece “Deep Reflection” in Belgrade. Spanish artist Murfin, originally from Linares (Jaén), found himself among the top contenders—a significant achievement for the national scene.
Fifteen works created in Spain have reached the final of the 2025 competition—a record number that highlights the growing influence of Spanish artists on the global street art scene. Last year, the main prize went to a piece from Galicia, confirming that Spain is steadily cementing its place among the leaders in this field.
How the best are chosen
The selection of finalists is conducted in several stages. Each month, the jury reviews hundreds of new works, discovered both independently and through recommendations. From these, they select a hundred of the most compelling pieces, which are then published on social media. Not only do expert opinions matter; the public’s response—views, likes, comments, and other forms of engagement—also plays an important role.
A special algorithm is used to calculate the final score, analyzing user activity to create a ranking. This approach highlights not only technically accomplished works but also those that resonate with audiences around the world.
Spanish style
The Murfin mural stands out among the other finalists for its unique atmosphere and depth. Experts note that Spanish artists are increasingly exploring themes of childhood, memory, and social justice, which resonates with a wide audience. In recent years, such works have become urban landmarks and attract the attention of tourists.
Fuenlabrada, once not considered a street art hotspot, can now boast its own masterpiece. Locals say the emergence of this graffiti has transformed the neighborhood and become a source of pride. For many, it is an example of how art can shape the urban environment and craft a new identity.
Context and trends
In recent years, Spain has consistently ranked among the leaders in international street art competitions. In 2024, a mural from Fene (Galicia) took first place, while earlier high rankings were achieved by works from Valencia and Barcelona. Experts attribute this success to the support of local authorities and the active involvement of communities in the development of urban culture.
International street art competitions are becoming increasingly popular, providing new opportunities for artists. In Spain, there is a growing interest in creating large-scale murals that not only beautify cities but also become part of the public dialogue. These projects are often supported by municipalities and draw attention to socially significant issues.
