Locals Are Obsessed With This Iconic Roadside Spot in South Carolina

Out of all the art in South Carolina, the mural known as Tunnelvision may be one of the most mesmerizing. Not only does this optical illusion twist your sense of reality it invokes a sense of wonder upon first glance. Head to the lovely city of Columbia to witness this piece, and you will soon see why it has drawn in so many people over the decades. The story behind this painting is equally as interesting, so allow me to give you context for this amazing piece of art before you go to visit. 

The artist known as “Blue Sky” painted Tunnelvision in 1975, but it wasn’t as simple as putting up a design on the side of the building. The journey started in a state of slumber before it ever became a reality. Blue Sky had a vision in his dream, and he was so inspired by his sleepy imagination that he sketched out a drawing of what he saw. It was a tunnel hewn out of stone, allowing the jagged rocks to form a passageway to a mountainous landscape. Blue Sky was convinced that the city of Columbia would benefit from having such a piece painted on the side of a building, and I am thankful for his foresight. The next step wasn’t as simple as putting a brush to the blank canvas, because he first had to prove he was not a communist.

The bank where this mural is located agreed to allow him to paint the mural, but their biggest concern was that he might be using this as an opportunity to spread communist ideals. This wasn’t as random as it may seem because national headlines at the time spoke of an artist who was arrested in New York for painting communist slogans in the streets. After answering all of their concerns, Blue Sky was granted the ability to paint the mural under the circumstances that he would paint over it if they didn’t like it. 

After some more back and forth, the artist was granted $300,0 and he got to work right away. The project took the man a year to complete, and as you can well see is standing still to this day. This was the first piece of art in the city and became a huge hit within the local community. Soon after, Blue Sky also added two more art installments known as Busted Plug Plaza and Neverbust Chain.

The mural is thankfully positioned on the parking lot side of the building because a few confused drivers have almost crashed right into the wall. Fortunately, there have been no accidents recorded as of yet, but it is easy to see why bewildered drivers may be confused by the painting. The tunnel is an optical illusion and looks like you could walk right into the darkness of the tunnel and be transported to the other side. This piece is absolutely brilliant and an amazing addition to the city of Columbia.

Art in South Carolina may be more of a common sight today, but back in 1975, this was a brand new concept for Columbia. Many guests have stood bewitched by the brilliant beauty that Blue Sky has illustrated for us, and you can visit and see this sight for yourself. If this kind of art intrigues you, then head on over to our itinerary planner for recommendations for more artsy sights and experiences!