Exploring the Vibrant World of Penang Street Art
Before visiting, I knew that Penang was famous for fantastic food, beautiful historical architecture and heritage homes and shophouses. However, I did not know that another thing Penang is also famous for is its world-class street art. Walking the narrow lanes and streets of Georgetown, I was delighted to see street art (quite a few are interactive!) all throughout town.
Street art is a popular attraction in Penang, Malaysia, that has become famous worldwide. The street art consists of murals, sculptures, and installations that are scattered throughout the city, primarily in the historic George Town area. Art began showing up around town in 2012 when Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic was commissioned by the Penang Municipal Council to create a series of murals that would reflect the city's rich culture and heritage. Zacharevic's murals, which are interactive and often feature real-life objects, quickly gained popularity, and soon other artists began to contribute to the collection.
Today, there are over 50 street art installations in Penang, each with its own unique style and message. Some of the most popular installations include "Little Children on a Bicycle," "Reaching Up," "Kids on a Swing," and "The Real Bruce Lee Would Never Do This."
Penang's street art has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world who come to explore the city and take photos with the artwork. In addition to the street art, Penang is also known for its delicious food, colorful festivals, and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Malaysia. To learn more and go on your own scavenger hunt for art, check out the Street Art Penang website that shares interactive maps of all street art in Penang.