Street art in Penang
Penang’s prominence as a UNESCO World Heritage City creates a fascinating backdrop for its street art. The state’s murals bear the signature of eminent names such as Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, Russian artist Julia Volchkova as well as Malaysians, Baba Chuah and Tang Mun Kian.
Located along Armenian Street in George Town, this mural titled ‘Little Children on a Bicycle’, depicts a girl taking her brother on a bicycle ride. Created in 2012, this masterpiece by Ernest Zacharevic was nominated as one of the World’s Top 15 Wall Paintings. Later in 2016, more details were added to the painting. The Boy on the Motorbike is another artwork by Ernest Zacharevic. It creatively uses props (in this case, a real motorbike) to add depth to the painting. Both paintings were commissioned as part of the Mirrors George Town project in conjunction with George Town Festival in 2012.
Also located along Armenian Street, “I Want Bao” is a much-loved painting by talented local artist WK Setor. It depicts two kids who are eagerly waiting to get their share of Pau, a type of soft steamed bun that comes with fillings. The mural is located beside the Ming Xiang Tai pastry shop. Interestingly, the kids in the mural are the owner’s children. After taking your photographs, drop by the pastry shop to try out this popular delicacy!
Penang-born artist Louis Gan is the creator of this heartwarming painting which shows a brother and sister on a swing.
Situated along Stewart Lane, this mural is commonly known as ‘The Indian Boatman’. It was created to celebrate Stewart Lane’s role in Penang’s maritime history. A walk along Muntri Street, Weld Quay, Lebuh Leith, Ah Quee Street and Penang Art Street Gallery will give a glimpse into more colourful paintings. Visitors can navigate their way using a trail map that is available at hotels and Tourist Information Centres.
General write-up on Penang
A cauldron of cross-cultural in uences and exotic traditions, Penang invites holidaymakers with its sweeping coastline, elegant colonial buildings and breathtaking places of worship. George Town, Penang’s capital city, was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage City status in 2008 for its history and heritage. The Pearl of the Orient is also synonymous with its two state-of-the-art bridges, which stand prominently as Southeast Asia’s 2nd and 5th longest bridges. One of the greatest attractions in Penang is its bewildering array of food. Unique and irresistible, Penang’s cooking styles dish out the best of the Malay, Chinese, Indian and Nyonya flavours. Click here to know more.