Ernest Zacharevic restores iconic Penang murals

Three of Penang’s most beloved murals will soon be restored by their original artist, Ernest Zacharevic.

The Lithuanian artist, famous for his street art, will return to George Town to breathe new life into the iconic works that have drawn visitors from around the world.

Zacharevic returns to Penang

Zacharevic, known for his murals that captured Penang’s vibrant culture, will restore Children on a Bicycle, Boy on a Chair, and Boy on a Bike.

These murals, located on Armenian Street, Cannon Street, and Ah Quee Street, respectively, have become significant tourist attractions since their creation during the 2012 George Town Festival.

After years of weathering, Zacharevic’s touch is needed to revive their original charm.

State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Han Wai expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are incredibly thankful to Ernest Zacharevic for returning to restore these culturally significant artworks.

His contributions have left a lasting impact on Penang.”

Restoring cultural landmarks

The restoration work, supported by the Penang government, is expected to be completed by early October.

Zacharevic assured that the murals will retain their original design, with only minor refurbishments to the props supporting them.

“There will be no changes to the artwork itself, but the restoration will be thorough,” Zacharevic told the The Star.

The restoration of these murals is in response to public concerns over their deterioration due to natural weathering.

Minor touch-ups were done in 2019, but this time the work will ensure the long-term preservation of these cultural landmarks.

The entire process is expected to take about a week.

Zacharevic’s murals have become emblematic of George Town’s thriving street art scene, attracting tourists and art lovers alike.

Featured in Lonely Planet’s Street Art book, alongside works by world-renowned artists such as Banksy, these murals have put George Town on the map as a global street art destination.

Wong Han Wai hopes that this restoration will inspire both local and international artists to continue contributing to Penang’s artistic landscape.

“We are excited to witness the revitalisation of these artworks, ensuring that they continue to enrich George Town’s cultural landscape for many years to come,” he said.

Since 2012, Ernest Zacharevic’s murals have not only enhanced Penang’s artistic appeal but also cemented the city’s place in global street art culture. \

With this restoration, the state hopes to maintain the vibrancy of its creative hub and encourage future artistic endeavours.