Mural: meaning, definitions and examples
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mural
[ˈmjʊərəl ]
Definition
street art
A mural is a large painting or artwork that is painted directly onto a wall or ceiling. Murals are often used to decorate public spaces and convey a message or story. They can range in size from small to large-scale, covering entire buildings.
Synonyms
fresco, painting, wall painting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mural |
A large painting or artwork created directly on a wall or ceiling. Used in public spaces like buildings or streets. Often thematic and can be part of a community project.
|
| fresco |
A technique of mural painting executed upon freshly laid lime plaster. Historically significant and found in ancient buildings or old churches.
|
| painting |
A general term for artwork created using paint. Can be on various surfaces and not limited to walls. Includes pieces found in galleries or homes.
|
| wall painting |
Similar to 'mural', referring to artwork painted directly on a wall. Used interchangeably with 'mural' but less common in modern vocabulary.
|
Examples of usage
- The city commissioned a famous artist to create a mural on the side of the library.
- Her mural depicted scenes from the town's history and culture.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Murals date back to prehistoric times, with some of the earliest examples found in caves in France and Spain, showcasing ancient life.
- The term 'mural' comes from the Latin 'murus,' meaning 'wall,' reflecting the nature of the artwork’s placement.
- During the Renaissance, famous artists like Michelangelo used murals to decorate churches, blending art with architecture.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, murals serve as public storytelling mediums, visually representing community history and values.
- Mexican muralism emerged in the early 20th century, with notable artists like Diego Rivera using large-scale works to address social issues.
- Murals can also be seen as a form of social protest, conveying messages on political and cultural matters in public spaces.
Modern Use
- Urban environments have embraced murals as a way to beautify neighborhoods and deter graffiti vandalism.
- Murals are sometimes used in educational settings, transforming school walls into colorful, inspiring learning environments.
- Digital technology has started to influence murals, with projections and augmented reality creating interactive art experiences.
Art Techniques
- Common techniques for creating murals include fresco, where paint is applied to wet plaster, allowing for vibrant, lasting colors.
- Some artists use spray paint for large murals, allowing quick application and the creation of intricate graffiti-style pieces.
- Collaborative murals often involve community participation, inviting local residents to contribute to the artwork process.
Influence on Community
- Murals can promote tourism, turning a street or neighborhood into a destination for art lovers and photographers.
- Studies show that murals can reduce crime rates in urban areas, as they foster community pride and ownership of public spaces.
- Community murals often highlight local culture, celebrating traditions and bringing residents together through shared art experiences.
Translations
Translations of the word "mural" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mural
🇮🇳 भित्तिचित्र
🇩🇪 Wandgemälde
🇮🇩 mural
🇺🇦 мурал
🇵🇱 mural
🇯🇵 壁画 (へきが)
🇫🇷 fresque murale
🇪🇸 mural
🇹🇷 duvar resmi
🇰🇷 벽화 (byeokhwa)
🇸🇦 جدارية
🇨🇿 nástěnná malba
🇸🇰 nástenná maľba
🇨🇳 壁画 (bìhuà)
🇸🇮 stenska slika
🇮🇸 múrál
🇰🇿 мурал
🇬🇪 მურალი
🇦🇿 divar rəsmi
🇲🇽 mural