Mural Painting

Murals have existed since the prehistoric times. From the ancient days of cave paintings, murals have come a long way in terms of their presentation. Today, murals are painted with the help of many innovative techniques. The various styles used for mural painting, also known as wall paintings or frescoes, depend upon the artist.

Mural paintings today are very much in demand and muralists use the latest techniques and methods of presentation to create a work of art. Many of the ancient frescoes are still an inspiration for muralists all over the world. Mural paintings are a growing trend with most swanky office interior designs showcasing some of the finest works of young talents in this industry.

Mural paintings can be designed and created in a variety of ways with the help of various materials. Tile mural paintings are most popular for home and office décor. The concept of tile mural painting originated from Portugal. Apart from ceramic tiles, artists also prefer to use porcelain and glass tiles to create an innovative look. Mural techniques can also be witnessed in a variety of finishes used to enhance the look of the painting. For example, a gloss finish is used to give a very contemporary look. The finish depends upon the basic concept planned by the artist.

Mural paintings in Kerala, India remain to be one of the most famous examples till date. Such murals (frescoes) can be seen in the beautiful ancient temples as well as churches of Kerala. Frescoes are generally created with the help of water – soluble paints. Once the colors are applied, one would need to paint rapidly to get the desired effect. The mural paintings by great artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo are definitely an inspiration for young talent today.

Famous Mural Paintings and Muralists: An inspiration for many

Leonardo da Vinci:
Leonardo da Vinci (15th April, 1452 – 2nd May, 1519) was truly a legendary artist whose genius abilities are reflected in his works of art. Leonardo has many masterpieces to his credit such as the ‘Mona Lisa’, ‘The Last Supper’, ‘Virgin of the Rocks’, ‘The Virgin and Child with St. Anne’ etc. In October 1503, Leonardo da Vinci spent two years designing and painting ‘The Battle of Anghiari’. Currently, many experts have analyzed the work of this great artist. There have been certain arguments about the concepts as well. Despite all the arguments, it goes without saying this legendary artist was truly a genius in the field of art.

Michelangelo:
Michelangelo (6th March, 1475 – 18th February, 1564) was known the world over for his exemplary works in the field of art. Michelangelo was a gifted genius; he was a painter, sculptor, a poet, architect and even an engineer! Michelangelo’s frescoes are considered to the most influential works in Western art. The scenes from Genesis which were painted on the ceiling and the ‘Last Judgment’ painted on the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel are some of his most revered works. Michelangelo took 4 years to complete the ceiling. The fresco or the mural painting called ‘Last Judgment’ created quite a flutter due to the depiction of nudism. Some of Michelangelo’s famous frescoes are ‘The Ancestors of Christ’ and ‘Prophets of Sybils’ (Sistine Chapel), ‘The Martyrdom of St. Peter’ and ‘The Conversion of Saul’ (Vatican Palace).

Raphael:
Raphael Sanzio (6th April, 1483 – 6th April, 1520) was one of the most revered painters known for being a perfectionist at work. Raphael led a nomadic life in his early years. He was known to include the influence of the Florentine period, yet he retained his individualistic style in all his works. Some of Raphael’s famous mural paintings/frescoes are the ‘La Disputa’, ‘The Parnassus’, ‘The Cardinal Virtues’, ‘The Triumph of Galatea’, ‘Deliverance of Saint Peter’ etc.

Raphael along with Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo form the trinity of great masters. Their mural paintings are beyond compare even till date!