Mission | 101 Perfect Waves

MISSION

101 Perfect Waves – International Mural Project is a global public-art initiative by Brazilian-born artist Hilton Alves, centered on painting large, vibrant murals of ocean waves around the world to inspire appreciation for the sea, art, and environmental stewardship.

The first mural — a massive depiction of the iconic Banzai Pipeline wave — is one of the largest wave murals in the world (about five stories high and over 100 m wide).
Since its inception, Alves has completed dozens of murals across multiple countries and cities, including Brazil, Singapore, the U.S. (Hawaii, California, Texas, Florida), and Israel.
Murals often involve community participation, such as collaborations with students and local artists, further connecting people to both art and ocean conservation.

The 101 Perfect Waves International Mural Project can be a real catalyst for communities—way beyond just making a wall look cool. Here’s how it helps on multiple levels

🌍 Strengthens community identity & pride

A large-scale mural becomes a shared landmark. People recognize it as their wall, their neighborhood story. That sense of ownership builds pride and connection—especially in areas that don’t often get investment in public art.

🤝 Brings people together

Many of the murals are created with local participation (students, residents, volunteers). Painting together turns strangers into collaborators and gives people a hands-on role in shaping their environment.

🌱 Raises environmental awareness

The wave imagery naturally opens conversations about:

Ocean protection
Climate change
Plastic pollution
Respect for nature

Instead of lectures, the project uses beauty and emotion to spark awareness—often the most effective kind.

🎓 Inspires youth & creativity

When kids and teens see a professional artist working in their neighborhood—and sometimes painting alongside them—it sends a powerful message:

Art is real. Art is valuable. And you can do this too.

That inspiration can ripple into confidence, creativity, and even career paths.

🏙️ Revitalizes public spaces

A mural can transform:

Blank or neglected walls
Industrial zones
School campuses
Urban corridors

This often leads to reduced vandalism, more foot traffic, and renewed care for the space.

🌊 Connects people to nature (even in cities)

Not every community lives near the ocean—but waves are universal symbols of movement, resilience, and calm. These murals bring a sense of nature, flow, and balance into dense urban environments.

💬 Encourages global cultural exchange

Because the project is international, it links communities around the world through a shared visual language. Different cultures, same wave—creating a quiet but powerful sense of global connection.

💙 Promotes healing and well-being

Waves are calming. Murals can:

Reduce visual stress
Improve mood
Create moments of pause in busy neighborhoods

Public art like this contributes to mental and emotional well-being, especially in high-density or underserved areas.