Penang Street Art Guide & Map
Explore the Penang Street Art Scene with a photo guide and interactive map! Penang’s historic and colourful capital city, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and multicultural heritage.
The city is also world famous for its vibrant, quirky, and often entertainingly interactive street art.
When travelling in Asia, I love to visit Malaysia and especially Penang island, located off the northwest coast of peninsular Malaysia, Penang is one on my favourite places in the whole world. So do join me on a self-guided walking tour of some of the most notable and iconic street art murals in George Town Penang!
Where To Start Finding Street Art In Penang?
Firstly, you should know that the street art listed on my map below and shown in my photos are only some of the many murals and street art displays to be discovered in George Town. It is difficult to provide an exact count of the number of street art items currently on the scene as they are continually evolving. New murals are always being created while older ones fade.
Getting Around In Penang
It’s possible to hire a bicycle or to take a rickshaw or ‘trishaw’ ride or to join an organised street art tour but one of the easiest and most relaxed ways to explore the street art in and around Georgetown Penang is by walking. Part of the joy of exploring is the element of surprise in finding street art in unexpected alleys and walkways.
So do wander the streets around Armenian Street, including Chulia Street, Ah Quee Street, and Muntri Street, to discover hidden artworks and installations. Keep an eye out for signs and arrows that point you in the direction of street art.
To assist you in a self-guided walking tour, I’ve included a Penang Street Art Guide and Map designed on Google Maps showing all the locations of all my own favourite street murals in Georgetown. Okay. Let’s go. Don’t forget to take photos!
Penang Street Art Guide & Map
Introducing The Artists of Penang Street Art
Who are the artists of Penang street art? While Ernest Zacharevic is one of the most well-known artists associated with Penang’s street art, the scene has since expanded to include the works of numerous other artists, both established and emerging. These artists have added to the diversity and vibrancy of Penang’s street art landscape.
Some local and international artists who have contributed to Penang’s street art scene include Julia Volchkova, Louis Gan, 101 Lost Kittens, Baba Chuah, and more. These artists have created murals, sculptures, and interactive installations that reflect the culture, history, and daily life of Penang.
The collaborative and evolving nature of street art means that new artists and artworks may continue to emerge in Penang, making it an ever-changing and dynamic artistic landscape.
My Favourite Street Art Murals In Georgetown Penang
Brother and Sister On A Swing
Old Soy Milk Stall
Hoola Hoop Basketball
I Want Bao (Pau)
Monkey Wall
Children On A Bicycle
Boy On A Motorbike
Little Boy With Pet Dinosaur
The Real Bruce Lee Would Never Do This
The Roti Seller
I Can Teach You
Cats In A Green Window
Boy On A Chair Reaching Up
Let’s Push
The Indian Boatman
What Makes Penang Street Art So Special?
Penang street art is special and distinctive for several reasons:
Historical and Cultural Significance: Penang’s street art often reflects the rich history and multicultural heritage of the region. It celebrates the diversity of Penang, with murals depicting scenes from different cultural backgrounds, such as Chinese, Indian, and Malay influences.
Interactive Art: Many of the street art pieces in Penang are interactive, allowing visitors to engage with the artwork by posing for photos or becoming part of the scene. This interactivity adds an element of fun and engagement that sets Penang’s street art apart.
Iconic Works: The works of Ernest Zacharevic, including “Children on a Bicycle” and “Little Children on a Bicycle,” have become iconic symbols of Penang’s street art. These pieces have garnered international recognition and are a major draw for tourists.
Preservation of Heritage: Some of the street art in Penang has been strategically placed to draw attention to historic buildings and heritage sites. This has contributed to the preservation and revitalization of these important cultural landmarks.
Tourist Attraction: Penang’s street art has transformed George Town into a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. It has played a significant role in boosting tourism and the local economy.
Continuous Evolution: Penang’s street art scene is dynamic and continually evolving. New artworks are created, and old ones may fade or be replaced, keeping the scene fresh and exciting for repeat visitors.
Community Involvement: The street art scene in Penang has encouraged community involvement and engagement. It has brought together artists, residents, and tourists, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in the city’s cultural and artistic heritage.
Global Recognition: Penang’s street art has gained international recognition, leading to the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition has further solidified its status as a global cultural and artistic destination.
Expression of Creativity: Street art allows artists to express themselves in public spaces, making art accessible to a broader audience beyond traditional gallery settings. It serves as a platform for artistic expression and social commentary.
Local and International Collaboration: Penang’s street art scene has facilitated collaboration between local and international artists, leading to a diverse range of styles and influences. This fusion of artistic perspectives adds depth and variety to the city’s street art.
In summary, Penang street art is special because it not only beautifies the city but also tells a story of its history, culture, and people. It engages visitors, fosters community pride, and contributes to the preservation of heritage while continually evolving to reflect the changing dynamics of the city.
I hope I’ve inspired you to visit Malaysia and to explore Penang Island and it’s capital George Town’s unique street art!
Where To Stay In George Town Penang
I usually travel to Penang by air from the Malaysian Capital City of Kuala Lumpur (one of my favourite cities in the world!)
I recommend using Booking.com to find accommodation in Penang. Having visited Penang three times to date and have stayed in a mid-range priced hotel at The Holiday Inn which is in the popular Batu Ferringhi Beach Resort Area. I’ve stayed in a luxury hotel at The Prestige in George Town, and also a wonderful budget hostel called 24 Kimberley in old Georgetown (no website) where I had a private room and shared bathrooms. I booked them all using Booking.com.
Click the link below to search accommodation on Booking.com
Have you ever been to Penang?
Is visiting Penang and exploring it’s street art on your bucket list?
Let me know. Leave a comment below!
The Backpacking Housewife recommends WN Travel Insurance
