A mural is an artwork created directly on a wall or other permanent surface. It can be a form of public art, and also a kind of private ornamentation. Murals can be created on both the interior and exterior surfaces of a building.

Murals are typically characterized by their size, as they are much larger than traditional art forms like oil paintings or graphite drawings. They often cover significant portions of walls or entire building facades, allowing the artwork to have a significant visual impact.

Murals hold significant importance for several reasons:

1. Cultural Expression

Murals serve as a powerful means of cultural expression, allowing artists to convey their ideas, beliefs, and values through visual storytelling. They can depict local traditions, historical events, cultural diversity, and shared experiences, contributing to the preservation and celebration of a community's identity.

2. Beautification and Aesthetics

Murals can transform dull or neglected spaces into vibrant and visually appealing areas. They bring colour, creativity, and artistic flair to the urban landscape, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of neighbourhoods and creating a sense of pride and ownership among residents.

3. Community Engagement and Empowerment

A public artist will often involve community participation and collaboration. They provide an opportunity for residents to be actively involved in the creation and decision-making process, fostering a sense of ownership and belonging. Community members may contribute ideas, stories, or even assist in painting, strengthening social bonds and promoting a shared sense of pride and unity.

4. Neighbourhood Revitalisation and Street Art Tourism

Murals can play a crucial role in neighbourhood revitalisation efforts. By transforming neglected or disused areas into attractive destinations, they can help stimulate economic activity, attract visitors, and promote tourism. A great example of this are the silo artworks across regional Australia! Murals often become landmarks and tourist attractions, drawing attention to an area’s unique character and cultural vibrancy.

5. Psychological and Emotional Impact

Murals have the potential to uplift spirits, inspire hope, and create a positive environment. They can brighten up public spaces, evoke emotions, and generate a sense of joy, wonder, and inspiration. Murals can also contribute to mental well-being, offering moments of beauty, escape, and reflection in everyday surroundings.

There is no denying that mural artworks have a meaningful impact on communities, ranging from cultural preservation and local community engagement, to urban beautification and social awareness. They foster connections, inspire creativity, and contribute to the overall vibrancy and liveability of cities and neighbourhoods.

The cost of a mural is dependant on numerous factors, including the scale of the mural, the experience of the artist, the complexity of the design, and other costs such as materials and travel (when applicable).

How much do mural artists charge? Some artists charge by square meter, which could be from $100 - $500 per square meter. Others charge by a day rate, which could be from $250 to as much as $1000 per day! Price really is dependant on who you are asking to paint, and the complexity of what you need created.

Local emerging artists tend to offer the most affordable rates, but this can be at the expense of the overall quality of your artwork. Painting high quality murals is a challenging skill, even for “simple” abstract designs. Before you choose a muralist, take a look at their portfolio. Artists who demonstrate professionality and consistent quality will often be the easiest to work with, and tend to offer the highest value return.

For a Brisbane mural artist who services South East Queensland and beyond, check out my portfolio here.

A mural artwork can take anywhere from a day to several weeks to complete, depending on the complexity of the job. Many small to medium sized mural projects can be completed within three to five days by a skilled mural artist, but large, highly detailed and/or realistic artworks can much take longer - and even require extra artists to help!

If you would like a time estimate for a project you’ve been thinking about, reach out for a free quote. My turnaround time is typically 3 - 14 business days depending on project complexity.

The short answer is: they can!

Murals can potentially help deter graffiti, but their effectiveness in preventing graffiti entirely depends on various factors.

Generally speaking, graffiti writers tend respect mural artworks. This is especially true for artworks with a strong visual impact, and those that use spray paints to a high level of skill. While many many graffiti writers would hate to be called “street artists”, graffiti lettering requires similar skills to mural painting - the main difference is that graffiti is done without permission!

It's important to note that while murals can contribute to graffiti prevention, they are not fool proof solutions. Some vandals may still target murals, especially if they perceive a lack of surveillance. To combat graffiti effectively, a comprehensive approach involving a graffiti resistant clear coating, quick removal, surveillance measures, and ongoing maintenance can be necessary.

If you have a wall that is repeatedly being targeted by vandals, a mural with a graffiti resistant clear coat for extra precaution could be what you are looking for.

Senbruns Murals & Street Art offer graffiti protection as an optional addition to our murals.

What is street art and graffiti?

The difference between graffiti and street art lies primarily in their intent, execution, and reception. While both forms of artistic expression are commonly found in public spaces, there are certain distinctions that set them apart. It's important to note that the boundaries between graffiti and street art can be blurred, as some artists engage in both practices.

Graffiti is often associated with unauthorised or illicit markings made on public or private property without permission. It has roots in subcultures like hip-hop and has historically been associated with acts of vandalism. Graffiti typically involves the use of tags (stylized signatures), throw-ups (quickly executed bubble letters), and sometimes elaborate pieces (elaborate and colorful lettering). It is often created quickly and covertly, with a focus on personal expression, territorial marking, or social commentary. Graffiti is often seen as a form of rebellion or an expression of dissent against the establishment.

On the other hand, street art is a broader term that encompasses various forms of public art created in outdoor spaces. It can include large-scale murals, stencils, wheatpaste posters, installations, or three-dimensional sculptures. Street art is often created with the permission or support of local authorities or property owners, and street artists will often engage with the local community during the design process.