Mural Drawing Examples: Inspiration & Techniques

Linda Jul 20, 2026
two large murals on the side of a building with yellow and blue designs painted on them
two large murals on the side of a building with yellow and blue designs painted on them

Mural drawing is a form of artistic expression that has been used to convey messages, tell stories, and decorate public spaces for centuries. This technique has evolved over time, with various styles and techniques emerging in different cultures and historical periods. From ancient civilizations to modern-day artists, mural drawing has played a significant role in shaping the visual identity of communities and cities.

two large murals on the side of a building with yellow and blue designs painted on them
two large murals on the side of a building with yellow and blue designs painted on them

Today, mural drawing is a popular form of public art that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Its versatility and accessibility make it an attractive medium for artists, and its impact on urban landscapes is undeniable. In this article, we will explore some examples of mural drawing and its various applications.

a woman standing in front of a projection screen with an image on it's wall
a woman standing in front of a projection screen with an image on it's wall

Types of Mural Drawing

Mural drawing can be categorized into different types based on its purpose, style, and technique. Some common types of mural drawing include:

Mural Pintura
Mural Pintura

Street Art Murals

Street art murals are a popular form of mural drawing that has become a staple in many urban cities. These murals are often created by local artists or street art collectives and are designed to engage with the community and stimulate social change. Street art murals can range from simple, yet powerful, images to complex, multi-story narratives.

Cube Mural Inspired by Street Artist Thank YouX -
Cube Mural Inspired by Street Artist Thank YouX -

For example, the famous "Wheatpaste" mural in Melbourne, Australia, is a great example of street art. The mural, created by artist L7, features a large wheatpaste portrait of a local resident, which has become a beloved landmark in the city.

Historical Murals

Historical murals are a type of mural drawing that often depicts events or figures from the past. These murals are typically found in museums, historical sites, or public buildings and are designed to educate and inform the public about historical events and figures. Historical murals can be created using various techniques, including painting, stenciling, or printing.

snoopy museum
snoopy museum

A great example of historical murals is the "Battle of Gettysburg" mural in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This mural, created by artist Jack Ziegler, depicts a pivotal moment in the American Civil War and has become a popular tourist attraction.

Techniques and Styles

Mural drawing can be created using various techniques and styles, which often depend on the artist's vision and the desired outcome. Some common techniques and styles include:

a bedroom with a large city drawing on the wall
a bedroom with a large city drawing on the wall

Acrylic Painting

Acrylic painting is a popular technique used in mural drawing. This medium is versatile and can be used to create a wide range of colors and textures. Acrylic paint is often used in street art murals, as it is easy to apply and can be used to create bold, vibrant colors.

a woman standing in front of a colorful wall with mountains and flowers painted on it
a woman standing in front of a colorful wall with mountains and flowers painted on it
Easy Painting Reference, Basic Canvas Painting, Beginner Friendly Painting, Paint Cat Easy, Cats Painting Easy, Painting Ideas Cat Easy, Basic Canvas Painting Ideas, Art Ideas Cute, Painting Cats Easy
Easy Painting Reference, Basic Canvas Painting, Beginner Friendly Painting, Paint Cat Easy, Cats Painting Easy, Painting Ideas Cat Easy, Basic Canvas Painting Ideas, Art Ideas Cute, Painting Cats Easy
a mural on the side of a building with an octopus and sea creatures painted on it
a mural on the side of a building with an octopus and sea creatures painted on it
a large mural on the side of a building with trees and flowers painted on it
a large mural on the side of a building with trees and flowers painted on it
three different images of the same mural on a building's side and another image of flowers painted on it
three different images of the same mural on a building's side and another image of flowers painted on it
a large mural on the side of a building with flowers in front of it and a woman's face
a large mural on the side of a building with flowers in front of it and a woman's face
Alice and the cat
Alice and the cat

For example, the famous "Love is in the Air" mural in Los Angeles, California, features a vibrant, acrylic-painted image of a couple embracing. This mural, created by artist Chaz Bojorquez, has become a popular landmark in the city.

Stenciling

Stenciling is another popular technique used in mural drawing. This method involves using a stencil to create intricate designs and patterns. Stenciling can be used to create a wide range of effects, from simple, bold lines to complex, multi-colored images.

A great example of stenciling is the "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" mural in Tokyo, Japan. This mural, created by artist Taro Okamoto, features a large, stenciled image of a wave, which has become a beloved landmark in the city.

Mural drawing is a dynamic and expressive art form that continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide. Its versatility and accessibility make it an attractive medium for artists, and its impact on urban landscapes is undeniable. Whether you're a seasoned artist or simply a lover of art, mural drawing is a form of artistic expression that is sure to inspire and delight.