The Story
Art Alley emerged organically around 2003 in the service alley between 6th and 7th Streets, as local artists began painting directly on the brick walls. It ran informally for over a decade until the city and Rapid City Arts Council introduced a permit system in 2016. Its defining feature is impermanence — artists may paint over existing work, so sections change constantly and no piece is ever truly permanent.
Surprising Facts
→ There is no single "founder" — its origin is described as organic and communal.
→ It operated informally for roughly 13 years before a permit system arrived in 2016.
→ Because artists paint over each other, some walls change multiple times a day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Art Alley?
Art Alley is at Alley between 6th & 7th St (Main to St Joseph), Rapid City, SD. Explore it on the When It Was interactive map.
How old is Art Alley?
Art Alley dates to 2003, making it more than 23 years old.
Can you still visit Art Alley?
Yes — the site at Alley between 6th & 7th St (Main to St Joseph), Rapid City, SD still stands and remains in use today.