Murals

A mural is a large-scale artwork painted or applied directly onto a wall, ceiling, or other permanent interior or exterior surface. Murals are typically site-specific and integrated with the surrounding architecture, and they are intended to be part of the building rather than portable panels. They differ from graffiti or sticker art in scale, intent, and permanence.

History and styles: Murals have ancient roots in cultures such as the Roman and Greek wall paintings and Chinese cave murals; in the modern era, the term is associated with public art and the Mexican muralist movement of the early 20th century, notably Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, and David Alfaro Siqueiros, who used murals to convey social and political messages. Today, mural styles range from figurative to abstract; techniques include fresco (buon or secco) where pigment is applied to wet or dry plaster, as well as acrylic or latex paints, and mosaic or mixed-media approaches. Outdoor murals are often protected by weatherproof coatings.

Process and community: Creating a mural typically involves site assessment, artist selection or collaboration with a community group, design development, and surface preparation. The painting is executed directly on the wall, with scaffolding or lifts, and may require permits and coordination with property owners or authorities. Community murals can engage residents, support placemaking, and reflect local histories or identities.

Conservation and impact: Murals face deterioration from weather, pollution, and vandalism; restoration and repainting require professional conservation to preserve original intent. Notable examples include civic or institutional murals that became cultural landmarks, contributing to tourism, education, and collective memory.