Artists wanted: Benahavis turns manhole covers into open-air galleries this September

Painters and creative types across Spain have until 14 September to sign up for a quirky contest that will transform ordinary street covers in Benahavis into eye-catching works of art.

Aguas de Benahavis, the water firm jointly owned by Hidralia and the local town hall, has just launched the second year of its Urban Art Contest for Painting Manhole Covers. Entries opened on August 17 and stay open until the middle of next month. On Saturday 26 September the chosen artists will get stuck into Avenida de Andalucia, the main street through the mountain village, turning the metal lids into miniature outdoor galleries.

Last May’s first contest proved a big hit. More than fifty painters competed in three categories while live music kept the crowds entertained. Young Talent went to Coco Felicitas, Adults to Tatiana Legini and Professional to José Enrique Ragel. Organisers called it a collective canvas that locals and visitors still enjoy walking over.

How the day will run

Artistry kicks off at 5pm on September 26 with an hour and a half of painting. Judges then take fifteen minutes to deliberate before prizes are handed out from 7.45pm. The jury includes people from Hidralia, Benahavis Town Hall and last year’s professional winner, José Enrique Ragel.

Three categories are open: Adult, Young Talent and Professional. Cash prizes reach €750. Anyone can enter free of charge, whether they live in the village or not. Just head to elsaberdelagua.es to register.

Street art you can walk on

Once the brushes are down, those painted covers stay put. Everyday paths through Benahavis become permanent little galleries underfoot, a daily reminder that creativity can hide in the most unexpected places.

Benahavis already draws crowds for its feria, summer market and motorsport days. This contest adds another reason to wander the whitewashed streets and look down as well as around. Full details and entry forms sit on the official water company site, while the town hall pages at benahavis.es keep locals updated on cultural goings-on.