Georgetown on Penang Island is known for two things: Its delicious local food and stunning Malaysia street art! A number of artists have come together over the last decade to create the Georgetown Art Walk. This one of a kind art display will take you through the back alleys and winding roads of a real Malaysian city. Join us as we see the best of artists like Ernest Zacharevic, and more of the most amazing Georgetown street art.
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Who is Ernest Zacharevic?
Ernest Zacharevic is a Lithuanian born artist who became popular for his unique interactive street art. In 2012, he gained international recognition for his work at the Georgetown Festival in Penang Island Malaysia. What started as six interactive murals, turned into several other artists combining to create the Georgetown Art Walk.
Ernest’s iconic murals jumpstarted the Penang Island art scene, and added a new wrinkle to what was already a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ernest Zacharevic went on to feature his work in major cities like Singapore, Barcelona, and New York City. Yet, he’ll always be linked to Penang Island for his incredible Georgetown street art!
→ Learn More About Ernest Zacharevic
Where to Find Georgetown Street Art
Georgetown is broken into the two different sectors of Little India and Chinatown. It’s important to know that the majority of the Georgetown Art Walk is located in Chinatown. Fortunately, maps are offered at all hotels and tourist centers!
Also, the map should have all the best Georgetown art circled for you. Honestly, it won’t be hard to find the many murals, as an array of colors can be scene by simply strolling around the city. Now that you have your trusty map, it’s time to get on the hunt. Below are the different types of Georgetown art you’ll see on your walk!
Traditional Murals
Sparked by the work of Ernest Zacharevic, the Georgetown Art Walk now features murals by many artists from around the world. Some are professional and some are not, but it’s all lovely to see. Interestingly enough, shops and cafes like China House are almost like mini-museums.
The Georgetown art that surrounds them both in and outside is mesmerizing! For more traditional murals you can also check out the Old Hin Bus Depot. Here you’ll find a community art space that actually converts into a craft market on Sundays!
Iron Sculptures
SCULPTUREATWORK was commissioned by the government to create a project displaying the history of Penang Island in 2009. The Bangsar based art studio built 52 unique iron sculptures that take you from colonial times up through modern day tourism.
Each piece of Georgetown street art tells a story, and the quirky quotes will draw you in for a deeper look at Malaysian city life. The images will feel like a real life flip book the way they pop out at you!
Interactive Georgetown Art Murals
By far the coolest part of the Georgetown art walk is the interactive murals. Ernest Zacharevic strategically placed everything from bikes to swings, and even basketball hoops to enjoy. As you stroll around Penang Island Malaysia you’ll see people snapping pictures and having fun posing at every turn.
Our favorite interactive Georgetown art pieces were “Boy on a Bike” and “Brother and Sister on a Swing.” Make sure to check them all out and get some awesome pictures like these!
Have any questions about out Georgetown art, or want to share your favorite Ernest Zacharevic piece? Comment below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
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Where To Stay in Penang Malaysia
Ultra Luxury – Eastern & Oriental Hotel – A 5 Star hotel with beautiful antique furniture and large rooms. Eastern & Oriental Hotel offers views over the Georgetown harbor and ocean.
Fun Vacation – Tien Hotel.Residence– Located right in the heart of the Georgetown street art scene, Tien comes with an epic swimming pool and daily breakfast.
Hostel Life – Cookoobird Home – Cheap very basic beds and good spot in the center of the city. Walking distance to all the best food, night market, and other Penang Island attractions.
For more places to stay in Georgetown Malaysia you can explore the latest prices here!
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Malaysia Travel Planning
Flights: We always find deals using Skyscanner and Kayak. That’s how we got flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur for $40 USD, and Kuala Lumpur to Bali for less than $65!
Transportation: 12Go is what we use to book ferries, trains, buses, and transfers while traveling through Southeast Asia.
Accommodation: Compare competitive sites for hotels such as Booking.com and Agoda. Also, Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for activities all over Malaysia. You can book everything from a Cameron Highlands day tour to a Kuala Lumpur local street food night tour, and even a trip to the Batu Caves Temple!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without being covered. We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Here’s all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists! Including electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
