Penang’s mural art scene has turned the streets of George Town into one of the most photographed living galleries.
Once known mainly for its heritage buildings and old-world charm, this UNESCO-listed city is now world-famous for its vibrant murals.
Visitors and tourists alike love hunting for these gems tucked into alleys.
Some are plastered across shophouses and crumbling walls.
Others are hidden inside cafes and boutique hotels.
How the Penang Mural Scene Began
The Penang street art movement began in 2012 when the George Town Festival invited Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic to paint a series of murals called Mirrors George Town.
These large-scale works were designed to celebrate the city’s culture and everyday life.
That project sparked a wave of creativity and transformed George Town into one of Southeast Asia’s top street art destinations.
The movement really took off with iconic murals like Kids on Bicycle and Boy on Motorcycle.
Zacharevic blended local scenes with a whimsical twist, turning blank walls into something magical.
Visitors loved it.
Locals did too.
That burst of creativity inspired more artists, both local and international, to join in.
Since then, mural art has become one of the most talked-about and photographed features of Penang.
Where to Find Penang’s Most Popular Murals
You don’t need a map to find murals in Penang, but I’ve included one just in case.
They’re everywhere—but some spots are worth making time for.
Lebuh Armenian: Kids on Bicycle is the one everyone stops for.
Lebuh Ah Quee: Don’t miss Boy on Motorcycle.
Cannon Street: Look for Reaching Up.
Step by Step Lane: Brother and Sister on a Swing feels tucked away and special.
Children on Bicycle mural Armenian Street, Penang
Graffiti Alley (Lorong Lumut): A narrow, colorful lane filled with layers of art from different creators. There’s something new every time you visit.
Hin Bus Depot: A former bus terminal turned creative space.
You’ll find murals, sculptures, installations, and a weekend art market. A great spot to see how the mural scene keeps evolving.
Hin Bus Depot Ernest Zacharevic Mural
Balik Pulau Murals
Looking beyond George Town?
The mural culture isn’t limited to the city.
Head to Balik Pulau for a quieter, rural take on Penang’s street art.
These murals often reflect village life and local traditions, offering a fresh view away from the urban buzz.
Why Penang Mural Art Matters
The rise of street art in Penang has changed how people see the city.
Back alleys once ignored are now art trails.
Tourists explore deeper. Locals see their neighborhoods in a new light.
These murals are more than just photo ops.
They tell stories.
Some are nostalgic.
Some are playful.
Others make you pause and think.
All of them add character to the city.
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Tips for Exploring Murals in Penang
- Go early or late to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be doing plenty of walking
- Look for new additions—the mural scene here keeps changing
- Don’t just look—notice how the art interacts with its surroundings
- Pick up a mural map in town or download one online
- Or just follow your feet—getting a little lost often leads to unexpected finds
Are Penang Mural Worth Seeing?
Absolutely.
Even if you’re not big on art, the Penang mural experience is something special.
It’s relaxed, free, and gives you a glimpse of the city’s heart and creativity.
Pair It With
Mural hunting goes well with exploring nearby spots like Little India, the Clan Jetties, or grabbing Penang Street Food..
Chances are you’ll pass a few murals along the way—and maybe stumble on one no one’s posted about yet.
Final Thought
A Penang mural is more than just paint on a wall.
It’s a slice of local life.
A splash of humor.
Penangites see it as proof that the city knows how to honor its past while embracing what’s next.
Look around. The walls are talking.
Want more?
Explore all 34 top places to visit in Penang here.
