Unifying and connecting the local community is the impetus behind the Papaioea International Art Festival where 16 artists are working on large scale wall murals around the city.
The international artists from Australia, Ireland, the United States, Italy and Greece are in the city alongside Papaioea artists.
Pushing Arts in New Zealand Trust (Paint) and Palmerston North City Council have combined to bring Street Prints Papaioea inspired by the Manawatū region's rich history, natural beauty and unique people, says Street Prints creative director Jah Smith.
All artists started their murals on Friday and Wellington graffiti artist Chimp's Rangi and Papa on the Square Edge wall had already taken shape.
The industrial designer said Rangi and Papa will be textural and the tui and bellbird will be realistic.