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🗿Public Art and Urban Design

🗿public art and urban design review

7.2 Techniques and Materials for Mural Creation

10 min readLast Updated on July 30, 2024

Mural creation involves a blend of traditional and modern techniques, from fresco painting to digital printing. Artists choose methods based on aesthetics, location, and durability. Materials range from acrylic paints to spray cans, with specialized tools like scaffolding ensuring safety during large-scale projects.

The mural-making process encompasses concept development, surface preparation, and community engagement. Artists face challenges like legal hurdles, environmental factors, and vandalism. Successful murals often result from collaboration, careful planning, and a deep understanding of the community they serve.

Mural Painting Techniques

Traditional Techniques

Top images from around the web for Traditional Techniques
Top images from around the web for Traditional Techniques
  • Fresco is a traditional mural painting technique where pigments are applied to wet plaster, allowing the paint to become an integral part of the wall surface as the plaster dries
  • Secco is a mural painting technique where pigments are applied to dry plaster, often using a binding agent such as egg tempera or acrylic to adhere the paint to the surface
  • Fresco and secco techniques have been used for centuries in famous murals such as Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling (fresco) and Diego Rivera's Detroit Industry Murals (secco)

Modern Techniques

  • Modern mural painting techniques include the use of acrylic paints, spray paints, and digital printing methods, which offer greater flexibility and durability compared to traditional techniques
  • Acrylic paints are water-based, fast-drying, and can be applied to a variety of surfaces, making them a popular choice for contemporary murals (Shepard Fairey's "Hope" poster)
  • Spray paints allow for quick coverage of large areas and the creation of intricate designs using stencils or freehand techniques (Banksy's street art)
  • Digital printing methods involve creating the mural design on a computer and printing it on vinyl or other materials, which can then be installed on the wall surface (JR's large-scale photographic murals)

Factors Influencing Technique Choice

  • The choice of mural painting technique depends on factors such as the desired aesthetic, location, surface material, and environmental conditions
  • Each technique requires specific preparation methods, such as surface cleaning, priming, and sketching, to ensure the longevity and quality of the mural
  • For example, a fresco mural requires a freshly applied layer of wet plaster, while a secco mural can be painted on a dry, primed surface
  • Outdoor murals may require the use of more durable materials and techniques to withstand exposure to the elements (Trompe l'oeil murals in Lyon, France)

Materials and Tools for Murals

Paints and Mediums

  • Paints used in mural creation include acrylic, oil, and spray paints, each with their own unique properties and application methods
  • Acrylic paints are water-based, fast-drying, and versatile, making them a popular choice for murals (Keith Haring's colorful murals)
  • Oil paints offer rich colors and slow drying times, allowing for more blending and layering techniques (John Singer Sargent's "The Triumph of Religion" murals)
  • Spray paints are used for creating gradients, stencils, and freehand designs, and are often associated with street art and graffiti (Eduardo Kobra's large-scale portraits)
  • Mediums such as gesso, varnish, and sealants are used to prime surfaces, enhance colors, and protect the finished mural from damage

Brushes, Rollers, and Sponges

  • Brushes for mural painting come in various sizes and shapes, such as flat, round, and filbert, to achieve different effects and levels of detail
  • Large flat brushes are used for covering big areas and creating smooth, even strokes (Diego Rivera's "Man at the Crossroads" mural)
  • Round brushes are used for outlining, details, and creating fine lines (Beatriz Milhazes' intricate abstract murals)
  • Filbert brushes have a rounded tip and are used for blending and creating soft edges (Thomas Hart Benton's "America Today" murals)
  • Rollers and sponges are used for applying large areas of color or creating textured effects on the mural surface

Scaffolding and Safety Equipment

  • Scaffolding, ladders, and lifts are essential tools for accessing high or hard-to-reach areas of the mural surface safely and efficiently
  • Scaffolding provides a stable platform for artists to work on large-scale murals (Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling)
  • Ladders and lifts are used for smaller murals or hard-to-reach areas (WPA-era post office murals)
  • Protective gear, such as gloves, masks, and goggles, is necessary to ensure the safety of the artist during the mural creation process
  • Gloves protect the artist's hands from paint and chemicals, masks prevent inhalation of fumes and dust particles, and goggles shield the eyes from splashes and debris

Additional Tools and Materials

  • Other tools and materials include projectors for transferring designs, masking tape for creating clean edges, and drop cloths for protecting surrounding areas
  • Projectors are used to enlarge and transfer sketches onto the mural surface, ensuring accurate proportions and composition (Kerry James Marshall's "Rush More" mural)
  • Masking tape is used to create crisp, clean edges and define areas for different colors or designs (Odili Donald Odita's geometric murals)
  • Drop cloths protect the surrounding area from paint drips and spills, keeping the work area clean and organized

Mural Design and Execution

Concept Development and Sketching

  • Concept development involves researching, brainstorming, and sketching ideas to create a cohesive and meaningful mural design that aligns with the project's goals and location
  • Research may include studying the history, culture, and community of the mural site, as well as gathering inspiration from other artworks, photographs, or personal experiences
  • Brainstorming sessions help generate multiple ideas and explore different themes, compositions, and color schemes (Harlem Renaissance murals celebrating African American culture)
  • Sketching allows the artist to refine and visualize their ideas, experimenting with different layouts, proportions, and details (Diego Rivera's preparatory drawings for the "Detroit Industry Murals")
  • Once a concept is finalized, a detailed sketch or digital mock-up is created to scale, serving as a guide for the mural's composition, color scheme, and proportions

Surface Preparation and Design Transfer

  • The mural surface is prepared by cleaning, repairing, and priming to ensure proper adhesion of the paint and longevity of the artwork
  • Cleaning removes dirt, grime, and loose debris from the surface, creating a smooth and even base for painting (power washing or scrubbing with a brush and detergent)
  • Repairing involves filling cracks, holes, or other imperfections with spackle or plaster to create a seamless surface (WPA-era murals in post offices and public buildings)
  • Priming the surface with gesso or a suitable undercoat helps the paint adhere better and provides a consistent base color (Shepard Fairey's "We the People" series)
  • The design is transferred onto the mural surface using either a grid system, projector, or freehand drawing, depending on the artist's preference and the complexity of the design
  • Grid systems involve dividing the sketch and the mural surface into equal squares, then drawing the design one square at a time to maintain proportions (Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling)
  • Projectors are used to enlarge and trace the sketch onto the mural surface, ensuring accurate placement and scale (Robert Vargas' "Our Lady of DTLA" mural)

Painting and Final Touches

  • Painting begins with blocking in large areas of color and gradually progresses to adding details, highlights, and shadows to create depth and dimension
  • Blocking in involves applying the main colors and shapes of the mural, establishing the overall composition and color scheme (Thomas Hart Benton's "America Today" murals)
  • Details, highlights, and shadows are added to create a sense of realism, depth, and visual interest (John Singer Sargent's "The Triumph of Religion" murals)
  • Final touches, such as outlining, texturing, and sealing, are applied to enhance the mural's visual impact and protect it from environmental factors
  • Outlining helps define shapes, separate colors, and create a cohesive design (Keith Haring's bold outlines in his murals)
  • Texturing adds visual interest and depth to the mural, using techniques such as stippling, sponging, or layering (José Clemente Orozco's textured murals in Mexico)
  • Sealing the finished mural with a clear coat or varnish protects it from UV rays, moisture, and dirt, ensuring its longevity (WPA-era murals in public buildings)

Unveiling and Community Engagement

  • The completed mural is unveiled and celebrated with the community, often accompanied by an artist statement or description of the work's meaning and significance
  • Unveiling events may include speeches, performances, or interactive activities that engage the community and create a sense of ownership and pride in the mural (Judy Baca's "The Great Wall of Los Angeles" community mural project)
  • Artist statements provide insight into the mural's themes, inspiration, and creative process, helping the audience connect with and interpret the artwork (Diego Rivera's explanations of his murals' political and social commentary)
  • Community engagement throughout the mural process, from concept development to unveiling, fosters a sense of collaboration, empowerment, and shared identity (Philadelphia Mural Arts Program's community-driven mural projects)

Challenges of Public Murals

  • Obtaining necessary permits and approvals from local authorities and property owners is crucial to ensure the legality and support for the mural project
  • Permits may be required for using public spaces, modifying building facades, or closing streets during the mural installation process (Shepard Fairey's legal battles over his murals)
  • Approvals from property owners, community boards, or city councils help ensure the mural aligns with local regulations and community standards (Philadelphia Mural Arts Program's partnerships with city agencies and property owners)
  • Navigating the legal and administrative processes can be time-consuming and complex, requiring careful planning and communication with stakeholders

Community Engagement and Input

  • Community engagement and input are essential to create a mural that reflects the values, history, and aspirations of the local community and fosters a sense of ownership and pride
  • Engaging the community through surveys, workshops, or public meetings helps gather ideas, feedback, and support for the mural project (Judy Baca's "The Great Wall of Los Angeles" community mural project)
  • Incorporating community input into the mural design ensures that the artwork resonates with the local audience and tells their stories (Precita Eyes Muralists' community-driven mural projects in San Francisco)
  • Collaborating with community members, local artists, and organizations helps build relationships, trust, and a sense of shared ownership in the mural (Philadelphia Mural Arts Program's community partnerships)

Environmental Factors and Durability

  • Weather conditions, such as extreme temperatures, humidity, and precipitation, can affect the mural's creation process and long-term durability, requiring the use of appropriate materials and techniques
  • Extreme temperatures can cause paint to dry too quickly or slowly, affecting the application process and the mural's appearance (murals in desert climates like Las Vegas or Phoenix)
  • Humidity and moisture can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, or efflorescence on the mural surface, damaging the artwork over time (murals in tropical climates like Miami or New Orleans)
  • Precipitation, such as rain or snow, can erode or wash away the mural's paint layers, requiring the use of water-resistant or weatherproof materials (murals in rainy climates like Seattle or Portland)
  • Choosing the right paints, primers, and sealants that can withstand the specific environmental conditions of the mural site is crucial for ensuring the artwork's longevity and durability (WPA-era murals in public buildings that have survived for decades)

Safety and Accessibility Concerns

  • Accessibility and safety concerns must be addressed, especially when working on high or hard-to-reach areas, to ensure the well-being of the artist and the public
  • Working on scaffolding, ladders, or lifts requires proper safety training, equipment, and precautions to prevent accidents or injuries (Diego Rivera's use of scaffolding for his large-scale murals)
  • Ensuring the mural site is accessible for artists with disabilities or mobility limitations may require special accommodations or assistive devices (Judith Baca's collaborative mural projects with diverse artists)
  • Public safety considerations, such as avoiding tripping hazards, protecting pedestrians from falling objects, or providing adequate lighting, must be addressed during the mural installation process (Philadelphia Mural Arts Program's safety protocols for public mural projects)

Vandalism and Preservation

  • Vandalism and graffiti pose a threat to the longevity and integrity of public murals, necessitating the use of anti-graffiti coatings and regular maintenance to preserve the artwork
  • Anti-graffiti coatings, such as clear, sacrificial, or non-sacrificial coatings, provide a protective layer that can be easily cleaned or removed if the mural is vandalized (murals in high-traffic urban areas like New York City or Los Angeles)
  • Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, touch-ups, or repainting, helps maintain the mural's appearance and integrity over time (WPA-era murals that have been restored and preserved)
  • Documenting the mural through photographs, videos, or digital archives helps preserve the artwork's legacy and allows for future restoration or reproduction if necessary (Rescue Public Murals project by Heritage Preservation)
  • Engaging the community in the mural's preservation, such as through volunteer clean-up days or educational programs, helps foster a sense of stewardship and pride in the artwork (Philadelphia Mural Arts Program's mural restoration initiatives)

Funding and Collaboration

  • Budgetary constraints and funding sources, such as grants, sponsorships, and crowdfunding, must be carefully considered to ensure the feasibility and sustainability of the mural project
  • Grants from government agencies, foundations, or arts organizations can provide significant funding for mural projects, but often require a competitive application process and strict reporting requirements (National Endowment for the Arts grants for public art projects)
  • Sponsorships from local businesses, corporations, or individuals can help fund mural projects in exchange for recognition or advertising opportunities (Philadelphia Mural Arts Program's corporate sponsorship program)
  • Crowdfunding platforms, such as Kickstarter or GoFundMe, allow artists to raise funds directly from the public, but require effective marketing and community engagement to reach funding goals (Albuquerque's "Mural Fest" crowdfunding campaign)
  • Collaboration with other artists, community members, and stakeholders is often necessary to successfully execute a large-scale public mural that meets the diverse needs and expectations of the community
  • Collaborating with other artists can help distribute the workload, bring in diverse skills and perspectives, and create a more dynamic and engaging mural (Precita Eyes Muralists' collaborative mural projects in San Francisco)
  • Partnering with community organizations, schools, or local businesses can help secure funding, resources, and support for the mural project (Philadelphia Mural Arts Program's community partnerships)
  • Working with city agencies, such as parks and recreation departments or transportation authorities, can help navigate the legal and logistical challenges of installing a mural in a public space (Chicago Public Art Group's collaborations with the Chicago Transit Authority)


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© 2025 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.