MURALS
Murals are large-scale artworks created directly on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces, often intended to transform public or private spaces. They can be decorative, narrative, or political, and serve as a means of artistic expression, community identity, or social commentary. Murals have been used throughout history, from ancient cave paintings to modern-day urban art, with contemporary artists like Diego Rivera and Banksy using murals to address political issues and reflect cultural stories.
Murals are created through a multi-step process that includes surface preparation, design, and painting. First, the wall is cleaned and primed to ensure proper paint adhesion. Artists then create a design, either manually or digitally, and transfer it to the wall using grids or projection techniques. Painting methods can vary, including fresco, acrylic, or spray paint, depending on the desired effect and surface. After painting, protective coatings are often applied to preserve the mural from weather and damage. Murals can be intricate works of art used for social, cultural, or aesthetic purposes (Chun, 2016; Lewisohn, 2008; Sánchez, 2017).
The story of significance
Murals hold significant cultural, social, and political value, serving as powerful visual tools for communication, reflection, and community engagement. Historically, murals have been used to express collective identities, preserve cultural narratives, and challenge political ideologies. For instance, in the early 20th century, Mexican muralists like Diego Rivera and David Siqueiros used murals to address social issues, such as labor rights and the struggles of the working class, becoming a symbol of resistance and national pride (Tannenbaum, 2007)
In more recent times, street murals have been a form of social commentary, addressing topics like racial injustice, inequality, and political activism (Chun, 2016). Beyond activism, murals also serve as a form of urban beautification, transforming public spaces into vibrant works of art, fostering a sense of community, and attracting tourism (Lewisohn, 2008). Their accessibility—often displayed in public spaces—also ensures that the message is available to a wide audience, contributing to their enduring power and relevance.
Misconceptions
Some common misconceptions about murals include the belief that they are simply “decorative” or “graffiti” and not serious art forms. Many people mistake murals for mere urban embellishments without recognizing their deeper cultural, political, and social significance. In particular, murals are often associated with vandalism, despite their long history as a form of public art and activism (Tannenbaum, 2007). Additionally, there’s a misconception that murals are only for large-scale projects, when in fact, they can vary in size and can be found in diverse settings, from community spaces to galleries (Chun, 2016). These misunderstandings often overlook the role of murals in fostering community identity, addressing social issues, and transforming public spaces (Sánchez, 2017).
Inspiring Mural Artist
CAMILLEB WALALA
Camille Walala is a British artist known for her bold, colourful, and geometric street art. Drawing inspiration from patterns and tribal motifs, she creates vibrant public murals that transform urban spaces. Her work combines elements of pop art, graphic design, and architectural abstraction, bringing a sense of playfulness and energy to the environments she engages with. Walala’s murals have appeared internationally, making her a prominent figure in contemporary street art.
She is known for creating large-scale, public art installations that often feature bright, primary colors, dynamic patterns, and abstract forms. Walala’s murals aim to inject a sense of playfulness and joy into city spaces, making them more visually engaging and stimulating for those who encounter them. Walala’s work extends beyond just decorative street art; it often interacts with the surrounding architecture and space, enhancing and altering the perception of the environment. (Camille Walala’s Latest Artwork is a Sprawling, Multi-Building Mural – Metropolis, n.d.). Through these murals, Walala injects a sense of vitality into often overlooked areas, encouraging the public to engage more deeply with the urban spaces they inhabit.
Her murals are not just about beautification—they are a form of artistic expression that aims to spark joy, creativity, and reflection, making public art accessible to all. Whether in London, Sydney, or other cities, Camille Walala’s murals continue to inspire both the art community and the general public with their unique fusion of color, form, and energy. (‘Industry City Walala Mural,’ n.d.)