Discover the Famous Georgetown Street Art Scene in Penang – Malaysia

Georgetown street art in Penang is some of the best in Malaysia. The variety and creativity on display are impressive, with something new to see around every corner. Whether you’re a street art enthusiast or just looking for something different, Georgetown is worth a visit!

The history of Penang is a fascinating one; the modern history of Penang only started in 1786 because Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company landed on Penang Island, where Fort Cornwallis now stands. For Light, Penang was the ideal place because it was in the middle of the maritime trade routes between China and India, so it was a convenient place for trade, and it was a great place for French and Dutch expansion in Southeast Asia.

The British influence is so high here that the street names in Penang have English names; for example, the city itself is called Georgetown. There are streets like Lorong Buckingham, Armenian Street, Leith Street, etc.

Because Penang has been around for so long, the buildings date back to the 1700s, meaning many of them are rundown, but people have tried to renovate and make the old buildings look stunning. Artists and muralists alike have been attempting to enhance Georgetown’s position as the street capital of the country.

 

 

 

Since 2008, Georgetown has been inscribed as a World Heritage Site; street art has developed rapidly. In 2009, cartoonists such as Tang Mun Kian and Baba Chuah wanted to help bring awareness to the history of the street by adding the stories of the street and social history through the use of caricatures, so there are metal caricatures that have been set up all over the city for everyone to see.

The iron caricatures blend humour and historical facts that describe the relaxed demeanour of early settlement days, giving a unique history to each of those streets. They depict the people’s daily lives where those landmarks start at this moment.

In 2012, London-trained Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic was asked and commissioned to paint a collection of murals around the inner city, and you can see them all over Georgetown. The project sparks interest in the locals; more and more local artists are starting to add murals to the walls of Georgetown.

Now, rather than walking around aimlessly, most hostels and hotels will have a brochure of all the street art so that you can go on a scavenger hunt around the town and take photos of all the murals and sculptures. Being interested in street art, I was excited to start my tour, so with a coffee and my brochure in hand, I was ready for my adventure around Georgetown to see all the street art.

 

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Discover the Famous Georgetown Street Art Scene in Penang – Malaysia

Georgetown is a World Heritage site; its streets are lined with beautiful colonial architecture and traditional temples. But in recent years, Georgetown has become known for something else: it is street art.

The Georgetown street art scene began in 2008 when a local artist painted murals on shophouse walls. Since then, the number of murals has grown exponentially, and Georgetown is now home to over 100 murals.

Street art depicts a wide range of subject matter, from Malaysian folklore to pop culture. And it’s not just limited to walls – Georgetown’s street art can be found on sidewalks, stairs, and even doors. Georgetown is the place to be if you’re looking for a dose of colour and creativity in what can best describe making the best in a rundown situation.

 

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The George Town Heritage Centre

Georgetown is world-famous for its street art, and the Georgetown Heritage Centre is the perfect place to explore this artistic side of the city.

The Centre houses several museums that showcase Georgetown’s unique history and culture and a range of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the street art. In addition to the street art, the Georgetown Heritage Centre also offers other attractions, including a café, a gift shop, and a range of outdoor spaces.

Whether you want to learn more about Georgetown’s history or enjoy some of the city’s most iconic artwork, the Georgetown Heritage Centre is worth visiting.

Below is a list of things you’ll achieve when walking through the Georgetown Heritage Centre.

– See the sights and learn about Georgetown’s history at the Heritage Centre
– Get to know more about the culture and traditions of Penang
– Take a walk through the beautiful colonial architecture of Georgetown
– Enjoy some delicious local cuisine

 

 

 

Protecting the street art in Georgetown

Georgetown is well known for its street art – and good reason! The vibrant, colourful murals can be found on buildings and walls throughout the neighbourhood. But what happens when street art starts to break down?

Georgetown’s street art is exposed to the elements 24/7, which means it’s constantly at risk of fading, peeling, or flaking. The hot summer sun and harsh weather can take a toll, and even the pollution from traffic can cause damage. Over time, these factors can cause the artwork to lose its vibrancy and become faded and dull.

Fortunately, some steps can be taken to help protect Georgetown’s street art. Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the artwork’s life, and UV-resistant varnishes can help to protect against fading. By taking these measures, we can help to preserve Georgetown’s unique character – and keep its street art scene alive and thriving for years to come!

 

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The Process of how street art gains approval

Georgetown’s street art is world-renowned, and for a good reason. The vibrant murals and larger-than-life sculptures add colour and personality to the neighbourhood, drawing in visitors worldwide. But have you ever wondered how these pieces are created?

Georgetown street art is created using a variety of mediums, including acrylic paint, spray paint, and mosaic tile. The Process begins with an artist submitting a proposal to the Georgetown Arts Commission. The artist starts painting or sculpting on-site if the proposal is approved.

Once the piece is completed, it undergoes a rigorous review process by the Georgetown Arts Commission. If they approve, the work is then installed in its permanent location. And that’s how street art comes to life!

 

 

 

The different types of Murali Street Art in Georgetown

The Georgetown Street art is scattered all over the city, with new ones appearing all the time. Some of them are massive, while others are tiny and hidden away. So if you’re looking for some colourful eye candy during your visit to Penang, check out the street art scene! No matter where you go in Georgetown, you’re sure to find something interesting to admire (or Instagram)!

For now, have a brief run-through of some of the famous street art in Penang.

 

 

Lorong Stewart Lane

Georgetown’s Lorong Stewart Lane is a hidden gem, not just because of the fantastic street art. This narrow alleyway is lined with colourful murals, each more eye-catching than the last. But that’s not all that makes this lane special.

It’s also home to several small businesses, including a cafe, a barber shop, and a florist. In addition, the alleyway often hosts live music and other events. So if you’re ever in Georgetown, swing by Lorong Stewart Lane – you won’t be disappointed!

 

 

The Jimmy Choo sculpture.

Georgetown is well-known for its street art, and one of the most famous pieces is the Jimmy Choo sculpture. Located on the corner of Lebuh Leith and Lebuh Muntri, the sculpture depicts the shoe designer’s early days in Penang.

Jimmy Choo is from Georgetown, and the sculpture captures his start in the shoe design industry. The statue is number one on the Georgetown scavenger hunt, and it’s easy to see why.

The detail and colours are unique, and it’s a great representation of Georgetown’s culture and history. If you’re in Georgetown, check out this famous sculpture.

 

 

 

 

Love Lane street art

The Love Lane Street Art depicts the street’s transformation from a quaint local lane to a hub for backpackers and travellers. The abundance of bars and hostels on the road has changed the history of Love Lane in the past few years, but this sculpture perfectly captures the street’s new identity.

History states that back in the day, the wealthy husbands of Muntri Street used to come to Love Lane, which used to be a street filled with brothels, to sleep with their mistresses. So, it is clear that the artists truly embraced that idea with this metal sculpture of a husband climbing out a window.

Georgetown’s street art makes it a unique and fun place to visit; this sculpture is an excellent example. If you’re ever in Georgetown, check out Love Lane and all its fantastic street art.

 

 

 

 

“Little Children on a Bicycle”

Georgetown’s Armenian Street is home to a wide variety of street art, and one of the most extraordinary murals can be found on the wall of a shophouse. Painted by Ernest Zacharevic, “Little Children on a Bicycle” depicts a little girl taking her younger brother on a bike ride.

The joy on their faces is contagious, and the three-dimensional objects that Zacharevic has used to add flair to the painting bring the scene to life. Georgetown’s street art is worth checking out; this mural is a must-see!

 

 

 

Old Bike by Loic Zacharevic

Georgetown is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant food scene, and street art. One of the most popular Georgetown street artists is Loic Zacharevic, whose murals can be found all over the city. Zacharevic’s work often uses three-dimensional objects to add an extra layer of interest to the paintings.

Zacharevic’s murals are a must-see for any visitor to Georgetown! For example, his mural “Old Motorbike” depicts a boy waiting on his bike as he watches pedestrian traffic. The mural itself is two-dimensional, but there are also three-dimensional cigarettes poking out of the wall, adding an element of fun and playfulness to the piece.

 

 

Georgetown Penang’s street art is world-renowned, and for a good reason – the artwork is gorgeous! The murals are incredibly detailed and vibrant, telling stories reflecting Georgetown’s rich history. From depictions of traditional Malaysian life to modern takes on pop culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What’s even more impressive is that Georgetown’s street art isn’t just confined to a few blocks – it can be found throughout the city, brightening up even the most mundane buildings. If you’re ever in Penang, take some time to admire Georgetown’s fantastic street art – you won’t be disappointed!