Afzan Pirzade Unveils First French Mural in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Afzan Pirzade has unveiled his inaugural mural in France, located on Rue de la Paix in Boulogne-sur-Mer. This black-and-white artwork draws inspiration from Rose O'Neill's 1911 illustration of Paolo and Francesca. As part of the Street Art Boulogne-sur-Mer 2026 edition, it captures the moment of the lovers' first kiss from Dante's Divine Comedy, swept away by the winds of Hell. Utilizing monochrome, the traditional brush painter freezes this dramatic scene, inviting varied interpretations. Positioned at a park entrance popular with senior citizens, the mural makes art more accessible. Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the festival also features Pirzade’s upcoming second mural for Place Léon Blum.
Key facts
- Afzan Pirzade completed his first mural in France on Rue de la Paix in Boulogne-sur-Mer.
- The mural is black-and-white and depicts a kiss from Rose O'Neill's 1911 drawing of Paolo and Francesca.
- The scene is based on Dante's Divine Comedy, showing the lovers' first kiss in the winds of Hell.
- Pirzade is a traditional painter who works exclusively with a brush and uses monochrome.
- The mural is located at the entrance of a park frequented by elderly residents.
- The work is part of the Street Art Boulogne-sur-Mer 2026 edition, marking the festival's tenth anniversary.
- Pirzade avoids literal storytelling, inviting viewers to form their own interpretations.
- A second mural for Place Léon Blum is already being prepared by the artist.
Entities
Artists
- Afzan Pirzade
- Rose O'Neill
- Dante Alighieri
Institutions
- Street Art Boulogne-sur-Mer
Locations
- Boulogne-sur-Mer
- France
- Rue de la Paix
- Place Léon Blum