A mural is a form of art directly painted or applied onto a wall or ceiling. Wall murals have a long history dating back centuries, and can take many forms. They have the unique ability to transform spaces, adding character, storytelling, and vibrancy. Beyond decoration, murals can evoke emotion, convey powerful messages, and create a lasting impression, turning ordinary walls into works of art. In this article, we’ll look at what a mural is and the impact they can have.
What is the Purpose of a Mural?
Murals have a variety of purposes and have evolved over time. Traditionally, their primary role was to make public and private spaces more aesthetically pleasing- a function that remains relevant today, as murals continue to breathe life into otherwise ordinary spaces!
Over the years, however, they have also become a powerful medium for commentary, offering a platform to express ideas, challenge norms, and inspire conversations.
Industrial areas like Shoreditch in London have transformed into popular tourist destinations, thanks to their vibrant murals and street art. Murals also serve as powerful commemorative pieces, honouring individuals or significant events—such as the iconic artworks on the Berlin Wall, which preserve its historical and cultural legacy.
A Brief History of Murals
Murals have a rich history spanning centuries, with some of the earliest examples found in the Chauvet Cave in France. They were also a prominent feature in Egyptian tombs and the ancient city of Pompeii. These artworks showcased a range of subjects, including landscapes, still life compositions, and figurative scenes.
During the Middle Ages, murals were often created using a technique known as fresco secco, where paint is applied to dry plaster. The collection of Kerala mural paintings from the 14th century serves as a great example of this method.
In Italy c.1300, wall painting began to grow, marking the beginning of its transformation into a more modern art form.
The Renaissance
No period in history has matched the Renaissance in Europe for the sheer intensity of creative focus on mural decoration by both artists and patrons. This era was defined by innovation, exploration, and support from wealthy and influential patrons. Together, these factors fuelled an excitement for new artistic possibilities.
The Renaissance is typically divided into phases: the Early Renaissance of the 15th century, the High Renaissance spanning 1500–1530, and the Late Renaissance, also known as the Mannerist style, which emerged in the latter half of the 16th century. Each phase brought its own unique contributions to the evolution of mural art.
The 20th Century and Beyond
During the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe, mural art saw little advancement in style or technique. However, the 20th century marked a turning point with the emergence of three new phases.
The first phase drew inspiration from the abstract and expressionist styles rooted in Parisian art movements, including the Fauvist and Cubist groups. The second phase was shaped by the revolutionary mural movement in Mexico, where new large-scale mosaics became a distinguishing feature. The third phase, known as the American mural movement of the 1930s, was developed under the sponsorship of the U.S. federal government and gave freedom to individual modes of expression.
Mural Techniques: Old and New
There are various styles and techniques used for wall murals. The most well-known technique traditionally used was fresco, which is created on freshly applied lime plaster. In this method, water serves as the medium to blend dry-powder pigments with the plaster. As the plaster sets, the painting becomes a permanent part of the wall itself.
Various other techniques also emerged, including those popularised by the Mexican Muralism movement. Pioneered by artists such as Diego Rivera and José Clemente Orozco, this movement brought a bold approach to mural art. Other techniques include encaustic, tempera, and ceramics.
Today, wall art can be created on poster paper or canvas and then applied to walls, making mural design more versatile and accessible. These artworks or photographic images can create the illusion of a lifelike scene, transforming ordinary spaces into an immersive visual experience.
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Famous Murals Around the World
Murals can be found all over the world, some of the most famous include:
- Balloon Girl by Banksy - Created in the early 2000s, Balloon Girl portrays a young girl reaching for a heart-shaped balloon. This iconic image is not only visually captivating, but also deeply symbolic, embodying themes of hope and innocence.
- The Sistine Chapel by Michaelangelo - The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City is one of the most renowned masterpieces in the world. Painted by Michelangelo in the early 16th century, this stunning fresco spans the entire ceiling of the chapel. With its vivid Biblical scenes and intricate narratives, it showcases Michelangelo's unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail.
- Nelson Mandela by Shepard Fairey - This iconic mural, created by street artist Shepard Fairey, is a powerful tribute to Nelson Mandela. Known for his thought-provoking art and social commentary, Fairey designed the piece as a symbol of hope and resilience. The mural features Mandela’s portrait rendered in Fairey’s signature style, characterised by bold colours and inspiring messages.
The Modern Take: Wallpaper Murals for Every Space
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Wallpaper murals are now widely used in interior spaces, and are a great way to infuse personality and charm into a home or workplace. They offer a customisable and creative solution to transform a space, allowing you to tailor the design to reflect your own unique style!
Murals come in a wide variety of designs, ranging from floral and boho styles to cityscapes and beach-scenes, offering something to suit every taste and aesthetic.
Collections at WallpaperMural
We’ve explored what a mural is, and how it has been a significant artistic expression throughout history. At WallpaperMural, we believe that walls don’t need to stay plain! Whatever your style, you'll find the perfect wall mural in our diverse collections.
Explore murals for every room, including kitchens, living rooms, and dining spaces, or search by colours like red, yellow, and black. Shop now and transform your space with stunning wall art!
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