Portland's painted streets

Portland's largest street painting, as seen from a roof on the northwest corner of the intersection of NE Holman and 8th Photograph: Johnathan Maus

Neighbours first came together in 2011 to kick off this community project. There are several street paintings scattered throughout Portland, but this is the largest, with each branch representing one of the four seasons Photograph: Johnathan Maus

Residents report a calmer atmosphere since the work was completed. Fred Armisen, from the TV series Portlandia, says: "I feel the most like I am in Portland when I stand in this spot" Photograph: Johnathan Maus

A close-up of the mural, showing a painted cyclist. The mural also features various animals that are often spotted in the area: a coyote, a raven, a raccoon Photograph: Flickr

A cyclist crosses the intersection. Locals have reported that cars now tend to approach the junction at a slower speed, which fulfills one of the project's primary aims. Read more at bikeportland.org Photograph: Johnathan Maus

This giant sunflower at Sunnyside Piazza was first painted in the 1990s Photograph: Daniel Etra/Flickr

Every now and then, volunteers get together for a re-painting session Photograph: Daniel Etra/Flickr

Residents of all ages at work on another mural Photograph: Daniel Etra/Fllickr

Cyclists set out en masse to make the most of the colourful street at Sunnyside Piazza Photograph: Flickr