Lauren Liz, Visual Artist & Muralist

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Artistic Makeover: How to Commission a Mural for Your Space

Unleashing the Power of Murals

If there's one truth about art, it's that it holds transformative power. Murals, particularly, have the ability to change the entire atmosphere of a space. Indoor or outdoor, imagine a blank wall that you pass by every day, an untouched canvas awaiting the breath of creativity. Filled with color, shapes, and figures, a story unfolds each time you gaze upon it.

Murals can encapsulate the love and stories behind a personal narrative, a corporate identity, or even a community's spirit. From children's bedrooms bursting with whimsical creatures to community murals that weave the thread of shared history, murals are more than decoration - they're a statement of our collective creativity. They stimulate conversation, inspire memories, and become an integral part of the space they inhabit.

The Artistic Match: Finding the Right Muralist

The first step in the mural journey is to find your artistic match. This might feel daunting, but remember, it's all about resonance. Start by researching various artists, exploring their portfolios, reading client testimonials, and engaging with their social media presence. Do they create abstract worlds or depict reality in stunning detail? Do they infuse their work with symbolism, or is their style more straightforward and graphic?

Not sure where to find them? If you’re not having luck with a traditional search engine, consider reaching out to your local artists collective, exploring community social media pages, or speaking to a local business with an existing mural installation.

Each muralist will have a unique artistic language that will interpret your vision vastly differently. I view it as a translator who can turn your ideas into a visual narrative. Finding the one whose language speaks to your vision and sense of aesthetics is often one of the most important aspects to hiring an artist and can be one of the biggest determining factors of your satisfaction later on.

From Vision to Reality: Developing a Design Concept

Now comes the exciting part, transforming your vision into a tangible design. It's not about the artist simply painting a picture, it's a dialogue where the idea evolves and takes form. Expect sessions of brainstorming where you both explore themes, colors, and symbols. Taking some time to gather any reference materials such as photos of your favorite existing murals, desired color palettes, or rough sketches of the design can greatly accelerate initial design meetings.

The artist will then turn these discussions into sketches or renderings, offering a visual proposal of your mural. You might go through several revisions until the design feels just right. The goal is to arrive at a design that not only aligns with your initial vision but also surprises and delights you, as the artist brings their creativity and expertise to the project.

The Logistics: Practical Considerations

Every mural project needs a solid foundation. The artist will begin by assessing the wall, checking for issues like moisture, rough surfaces, or old paint. They'll prepare the site, ensuring the area is clean and ready for the creative process. The size and scale of the mural will influence the project timeline substantially, as will the complexity of the design.

Outdoor murals require additional considerations, such as weather patterns and sunlight exposure. Your muralist will have the expertise to navigate these logistical aspects, ensuring your mural is not only beautiful but also durable and resistant to the elements.

Looking to mitigate some costs in your mural? Reducing the variety of the color palette, the overall height of the mural (preventing additional equipment and insurance needs), and moving to a more easily accessible or durable wall surface can all dramatically affect pricing. Take photos of the site in advance or tour it with your artist in person to get a better understanding of how they can design a mural within your budget.

Long-lasting Beauty: Maintaining Your Mural

Once your mural comes to life, you'll want to preserve its beauty. Installing trim to prevent accidental contact, rearranging furniture, and spot cleaning with a soft cloth will help maintain overall quality over time. Be mindful of sunlight exposure for indoor murals - consider installing blinds or curtains to limit direct sun.

For outdoor murals, your artist can apply a UV-protective coating to help withstand the elements. Over time, your mural may show signs of age, which may be desirable for many locations to add additional character. However, for significant changes or damage, consider reaching out to your artist for professional restoration. Murals should not show any substantial natural degradation within the first few years. Any problems with underlying material, flaking, or water damage should be addressed quickly with your artist or a general contractor.

A Little About Me

Hi, I'm Lauren Liz, and I'm thrilled to embark on this artistic journey with you. Since 2019, I've had the pleasure of transforming bare walls into vibrant murals, each one a new adventure and story. My approach to murals is all about collaboration and imagination. I strive to create not only a visually stunning piece but also a mural that resonates deeply with you. It’s not just about painting a picture; it's about breathing life into your vision.

When you commission a mural with me, you're investing in a partnership. I'll guide you through every step, from the initial concept discussion to the final reveal. I'm here to answer your questions, listen to your ideas, and provide expert advice to ensure we create a mural that you'll love for years to come.

Are you ready to start your mural journey? Explore my portfolio, reach out for a consultation, or send a message if you have any queries. I can’t wait to bring your vision to life.

Your Mural Awaits

The decision to commission a mural isn't a fleeting one; it's an investment in your space, in art, and in your story. It's about creating an environment that inspires, delights, and speaks to the heart. As your mural artist, I am committed to delivering not just a mural but a transformation that will impact how you experience your space every day.

So, are you ready to embark on this artistic journey? To watch your space change and grow through the power of mural art? Get in touch today, and let's bring your vision to life!