Chapter 1: Introduction to the Mural

In 2014, the town of Aberdeen, Washington, honored its native son, Kurt Cobain, with a mural celebrating the iconic frontman of Nirvana. As you arrive in Aberdeen, you step into the heart of Grunge music. A welcoming sign greets you with the phrase “Come As You Are,” a nod to the legendary band that Kurt Cobain co-founded with Krist Novoselic.

Local artist Erik Sandgren crafted a mural that captures the essence of Nirvana's impact on Aberdeen’s cultural landscape, showcasing the inspirations behind Cobain’s musical genius. The mural was unveiled on September 21, 2014, with the attendance of former Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic, marking a significant moment in the town's history.

The latest tribute to Cobain emerged on April 5, 2021, coinciding with the 27th anniversary of his passing. This new homage includes an AI-generated Nirvana song (which you can listen to here) and a cutting-edge augmented reality mural by artist D.S. Bradford. This innovative artwork draws inspiration from Nirvana's live album, From the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah, released on October 1, 1996, and is located by the scenic Wishkah River, near the Kurt Cobain Under the Bridge memorial.

To explore this augmented reality mural, visitors can access a designated portal at specific coordinates. This interactive experience allows you to engage with the mural at the click of a button. If you cannot visit Aberdeen, you can still learn more about the mural on the artist's official website.

Discover the journey to Kurt Cobain's memorial site and explore the cultural significance of Aberdeen through this visual guide.

Join us as we take a closer look at the steps Cobain took in his hometown, which shaped his life and music.