Street art in George Town, Penang
Now, I don’t pretend to be an art connoisseur – seriously, I couldn’t tell a Picasso from a Pollock. I’m proud of the fact I can point out a Banksy (as I should, living close to Bristol) and can name a Van Gough, but if I’m honest with you that’s as far as my art knowledge goes.
Even so, I was really keen to go on an art treasure hunt around the streets of George Town, Penang, as I’d loved the images I’d seen of the city’s street art and wanted to see them with my own eyes.
The art of Ernest Zacharevic
Penang’s become famous for its street art thanks to the work of Ernest Zacharevic, who was commissioned to create a series of artworks across the town for the 2012 George Town Festival. They’re fun, pretty and bring the local people to life, providing glimpses into everyday goings on of the city.
I found it so much fun wandering the streets looking out for a new piece of art, it was actually a great way to explore the town and I feel that I saw so much more of what George Town has to offer this way. Sometimes it can be quite easy to find the next piece, simply follow the crowd, but I quickly learnt to keep your eyes peeled as there’s much more of offer than just Zacharevic’s masterpieces!
Marking George Town
Marking George Town is a series of 52 – yep, you read that right! – Â iron sculptures found all over the city. Commissioned by the local tourist board, these are reminiscent of ink-drawn comic book strips and each tells a story relating to the location where they’re found.
101 Lost Kittens
There’s yet another series of street artworks, and these might be my favourites, simply because they contain…cats! Yes, I am that much of a cat lady. What of it?!
101 Lost Kittens is a series of 12 pieces of artwork by a group of Malaysian and Thai artists that were designed to bring to attention the plight of stray cats. So, great art and an important issue!
Street art is transient, so for every visitor the street art of George Town may be different. Sadly some of the art has already been worn away or damaged, such as my absolute favourite featuring Bruce Lee (it used to contain three kitties), but then there’s others that local artists have added their own touches too, such as Skippy…
Finding the street art in George Town, Penang
Finding George Town’s street art isn’t that hard and it’s not tough on the feet either. The majority of the artwork is confined to a small area that’s actually really pretty to explore, with lovely little cafes and quirky gift shops to be found around every corner.
It’s tougher if you want to tick off every piece of art, and some of the larger pieces are a little more out of the way, but to help you your way I’d recommend grabbing a Visit Penang’s Guide to George Town street art as this has a very useful map!
17 Comments
Emily Ray
I was walking around Shoreditch earlier and was impressed by all that street art – but this takes things to a whole other level! I particular love the 101 Lost Kittens street art (I wonder why, eh?!) 😀
Keri
Im with you on that, love those kitties! 😉
Emma @ Adventures of a London Kiwi
I utterly adore the kitty artwork – what a cool way to highlight their plight!
Keri
Indeed! Although, as the owner of Persian kitty the ‘Please care and bathe me’ piece made me feel so sad! 🙁
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World
Ohhhh – I love these. I’m a huge fan of street art, it is very popular here in Copenhagen, Denmark as well. The way the art integrates actual objects is also so fun! I think my favorite is the kids on the bike – so iconic and charming. Thank you for sharing this faraway place with #FarawayFiles – we’re happy to have you join! Cheers, Erin
Keri
I agree I think they’re really fun Erin! Thanks for the welcome, glad to have discovered your link up! x
Hilary
I love this post! One of my favorite things to do is wander and find the street art! Great photos! From experience I know it can be tough to get a good shot of street art. #farawayfiles
Keri
Thanks so much Hilary! I’m not much of a photographer tbh, but these were so amazing that even with my mediocre skills they still look good ha ha!
Katy Clarke
Let me tell you Keri they did not have this street art when I was last in Georgetown. Ok it was a long time ago! I think it really adds to the flavour of the city as it contrasts with the colonial architecture. Thanks for sharing with us on #farawayfiles
Keri
Oh you totally have to go back Katy, it was one of my favourite things about the city!
Bryna | Dotted Line Travels
I love the ones from Ernest Zacharevic – they’re amazing! Great post, Keri! I love looking at street art, and I’ll definitely have to stop by here if I make my way back to Penang!
Keri
Thanks Bryna, I think his were my favourites too. Beautiful, aren’t they!
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles)
This street art is fantastic – I really love it! And like Erin, I enjoy the way that the art incorporates actual objects – it makes it all the more effective. Going on a street art tour sounds like a great way of exploring a new city. Thanks for sharing this on #FarawayFiiles
Keri
It’s something unique, right? Yeah I think a tour like this is definitely a good way to see a city in a different life and perhaps uncover some hidden gems!
Ruth
Wow! I have seen photos of street art in Penang but haven’t seen such a comprehensive collection of photos (and the explanation behind them). I am charmed by all the cat paintings. Have to say all these is very unique. I like street art but sometimes the same artists work in “famous” cities and things can get repetitive.
Keri
Glad you enjoyed the post Ruth! I get what you mean but I thought all his stuff here was really unique, never got bored of it! Same with Banksy I reckon – we live near his home city of Bristol and love coming across his art…