How to Create a Mural that Lasts

Creating an outdoor mural takes a lot of work, whether it’s made on-site or in the studio. Murals and other forms of street art created for festivals, community art projects and temporary viewing do involve plenty of preparation and work. Larger, more permanent public art murals must often last for years, meaning materials, installation methods and maintenance are top of mind, especially if the project is being invested in by a public organization.

Besides the time spent creating the art itself, there’s a lot to consider when it’s time to take a piece of art from the studio out into the world. Surface material, paint, location, protective coatings and installation methods and more have to be taken into account. Is the art in a high-traffic area where it might be vandalized or need occasional cleaning? What about sun and weather exposure?