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Blending culture with the history of street art in Penang is Penang’s unique characteristic. The George Town area of Penang has spectacular murals in various artworks depicting the folklore of the city. Initially meant to reinvigorate the old town, the project has now become a top tourist destination place. Ranging from the subdued to the interactive 3D street art of Penang, the city is bursting with creativity and character. Whether you love art, or just want great pictures for Instagram, admiring Georgetown Penang street art will surely make the top of your list of things to do in Penang.
Quick Details
Location: George Town, Malaysia
Where To Stay: Bayview Hotel Georgetown Penang, CITY HUNTER At Georgetown
Where To Eat: Sha Cha Milk Tea, Fu Er Dai
Best Time To Visit: November to February
The Origins Of Penang Street Arts
Ernest Zacharevic, a Lithuanian street artist is known for kickstarting the street art scene in Penang in 2012 when he was employed on a project creating murals during a festival in George Town. His fame leads him to travel the world and later inspire local and international artists to travel to Malaysia to share his vision of turning Penang into an incredible open-air canvas. The bold strokes of the murals give a snapshot of the lively culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the friendly locals, and provide a tantalizing experience that goes beyond fancying the eye.
Famous Murals To Look Out For
Georgetown Penang Street Art is filled with stunning murals that bring the city’s history and culture to life. Here are some must-see artworks that capture the essence of Penang’s vibrant art scene.
1. Kids On A Bicycle
Photo: DTW / Wikimedia Commons
Kids on a Bicycle is one of the iconic murals in Georgetown Penang Street Art by the famous Ernest Zacharevic. It depicts two joyful kids cycling on a real bicycle Michaelangelo grandly embedded onto the wall. This mural displays the outgoing and innocent spirit of the children of Penang, which a lot of tourists love. Passersby often participate with the artwork by posing in creative ways, which makes it an attractive location for tourists interested in Penang 3D Street Art.
Artist: Ernest Zacharevic
Location: Lebuh Armenian
2. Boy On A Motorcycle
Photo: Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
This striking mural by Ernest Zacharevic features a young boy sitting on a real motorbike, playfully looking over his shoulder. The combination of street art and an actual vehicle makes it an interactive and eye-catching attraction. The detailed brushwork and lifelike expressions bring the artwork to life, making it a favourite among visitors exploring Georgetown Penang Street Art. The mural captures a sense of curiosity and adventure, reflecting Penang’s vibrant culture and history. It’s a must-visit for those interested in Penang 3D Street Art.
Artist: Ernest Zacharevic
Location: Lebuh Ah Quee
3. Awaiting Trishaw Pedaler
The Awaiting Trishaw Pedaler is a striking mural near Armenian Street and Penang Road that captures the essence of Penang’s rich heritage. It portrays an elderly trishaw rider resting while waiting for passengers, reflecting a once-thriving mode of transport in the city. The detailed artwork evokes nostalgia and appreciation for Penang’s cultural past. As one of the most admired pieces in Georgetown Penang Street Art, it highlights the everyday struggles of local workers while preserving history through street art.
Artist: Unknown
Location: Near Armenian Street and Penang Road
4. Cat Murals At Lebuh Armenian
Photo: Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
As part of the 101 Lost Kittens project, these murals aim to raise awareness about the plight of stray animals in Penang. The collection features various cat-themed paintings, each with a unique artistic touch that adds charm to Georgetown Penang Street Art. From playful kittens to large, expressive cats, these artworks capture the hearts of visitors. The murals not only highlight the beauty of 3D Street Art Penang but also encourage compassion toward animals in need.
Artist: Artists from the 101 Lost Kittens project
Location: Various spots along Lebuh Armenian
5. The Giant Cat
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
The Giant Cat mural is one of the most striking pieces from the 101 Lost Kittens project, aiming to raise awareness about animal welfare. This massive painting of a cat resting against a wall immediately grabs attention with its bold design and lifelike details. Located in the heart of Georgetown Penang Street Art, it adds a playful yet meaningful touch to the city’s vibrant art scene. Visitors often stop to admire its sheer size and capture creative photos, making it a must-see attraction.
Artist: Artists from the 101 Lost Kittens project
Location: Near Armenian Street
6. Little Boy With Pet Dinosaur
Photo: Rodrigo.Argenton / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located on Lebuh Ah Quee, this artwork is a blend of reality and fantasy, sparking curiosity among children and adults alike. The mural is part of the city’s effort to incorporate creativity into urban spaces, making it one of the most photographed pieces in the area. Tourists love taking pictures that make it seem like they are interacting with the dinosaur, adding a personal touch to their visit. If you are looking for a mural that combines humour, nostalgia, and artistic brilliance, this is a must-see while exploring Penang 3D street art.
Artist: Ernest Zacharevic
Location: Lebuh Ah Quee
7. Kung Fu Girl
Photo: DTW / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Soaring above the rest on a building at Lebuh Muntri is the Kung Fu Girl mural, one of the best representatives of Penang 3D street art. She depicts a girl in an imaginary martial art stance, whose feet are hooked around the two window sills While the artist’s perspective and shading make the arms look almost real, the rest of the art looks engraved. This mural embodies power, agility and the influence of martial arts in Malaysia. It’s an unforgettable place for those who appreciate murals that combine narrative art and architecture.
Artist: Ernest Zacharevic
Location: Lebuh Muntri
8. Brother And Sister On A Swing
Encapsulating the mischievous and pleasurable spirit of childhood, a boy and girl can be seen in the mural located along Step by Step Lane as they stand on a swing that is attached to the wall like a 3D decoration. The metaphorical world of the mural is larger than life as the painting embodies children’s playful side while utilizing vivid colours to capture the nostalgic simplicity which is warming to feel. Like the rest of the street art, this photo mural too arouses sentiments connecting many people to the past.
Artist: Louis Gan
Location: Step-by-Step Lane
Where To Find Penang 3D Street Art
Photo: Sabrinakhanpoly / Wikimedia Commons
If you love interactive art, Penang’s 3D street art scene offers a fun and immersive experience where visitors can become part of the paintings, creating memorable and entertaining photos. One of the top spots to explore is the Penang 3D Trick Art Museum, where illusion-based artworks make you feel like you’re stepping into a different reality. Another must-visit location is the Hin Bus Depot, a transformed abandoned bus depot that has evolved into a thriving arts and culture hub, featuring street art, exhibitions, weekend markets, and live performances. For those who enjoy strolling through historic streets, Lebuh Armenian and Cannon Street are perfect, offering vibrant murals that encourage interaction.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Kushared (Mohammed Sardar) / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to Penang can cost between ₹55,000 to ₹65,000 for a 5-day visit, depending on travel preferences. Round-trip flights typically range from ₹29,000 to ₹37,000, varying with booking time and season. Mid-range accommodations cost around ₹3,000 per night, while daily expenses, including meals and local transport, average ₹2,000. Additional costs may arise from sightseeing, shopping, or premium experiences.
Tips For Travellers
- Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photographs. The soft morning light enhances the colors of the murals, making them look even more stunning.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking a lot through narrow streets and alleys. Many of the murals are spread out, so be prepared for a bit of adventure.
- Bring a map or use online guides to locate the murals easily. Some of the best artworks are hidden in unexpected corners, and a guide will ensure you don’t miss any.
Penang’s street art scene is a must-visit for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and photographers alike. From the famous Georgetown Penang street art murals to the interactive Penang 3D street art, every piece tells a unique story and adds life to the city’s walls. Exploring these artworks offers a glimpse into Penang’s rich culture and creative spirit. Whether you’re posing with 3D masterpieces or admiring historical murals, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this artistic adventure—plan your trip with TripXL now and experience the vibrant charm of Penang’s street art firsthand.
Cover Photo: ShonEjai / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
