Top 10 Must-See Sydney Mural Art in 2023

Where do you find Sydney mural art?

Where is Sydney mural art? The big question! Some of the most well-known public mural art in Sydney can be found in the inner-city suburbs of Newtown, Chippendale, Surry Hills, and Redfern, as well as in The Rocks, a historic neighborhood in the city center. These areas are home to a high concentration of murals and street art installations, and are popular destinations for those interested in exploring the city’s street art scene.

Whether you are an art lover, a street art enthusiast, or just looking for something interesting to do in Sydney, exploring the city’s free to access mural art scene is a must.

What is the difference between Sydney mural art, street art and graffiti art?

At Book An Artist, we use the three words interchangeably as they all primarily feature on walls. But, there are some differences that you might find helpful when navigating Sydney’s bustling city streets.

1. What is Sydney graffiti art?

The word ‘graffiti’ covers all wall markings that usually involve words, nicknames or phrases (written in a style associated with traditional graffiti). Graffiti artists who tag large lettered pieces or imagery are where the lines blur between graffiti art and street art. The word ‘art’ is added when these tags or large lettered pieces include imagery. Graffiti is often associated with being illegal and unwanted, but through the right avenues graffiti artists can paint their work legally in locations that allow it.

Graffiti has an unapologetic nature about it and usually graffiti artists in Sydney don’t care much for opinions. They have something to say so they will find a way to say it!

2. What is Sydney street art?

Sydney street art varies slightly from graffiti. Its definition is quite literally art that can be found on the street, it is also usually legal. Whilst a distinct style associated with the local graffiti and street art community remains, it is more common to see a street artist painting in plain sight.

Street artists more often than not began their artistic journey as graffiti artists and then took the steps to legitimise their artwork.

3. What is Sydney mural art?

The main difference Sydney murals bring to the table is its process and its location. Murals are not confined to outdoor walls, they can be painted on any surface – including roofs, ceilings and floors. Commissioning a mural artist is usually for a specific design or purpose. The process of mural art involves making sure everyone involved has gone through the correct avenues. Is the wall owned? Does the artist have permission to paint the mural? Does the customer have a budget?

Working with a mural artist includes briefing the artist, creating and agreeing on designs, invoicing and scheduling paint days. The process allows all involved to know exactly what is taking place!

Interested in mural art? Browse local artists and commission custom artwork.

Why is Sydney mural art and street art important?

Graffiti and street art in Sydney play an important role within the community. Art, or murals specifically, offer a way for artists to express themselves creatively, culturally, politically and socially. Graffiti in Sydney also brings people together, provides incredible tourism opportunities and transforms areas into safer, more inviting spaces.

Check out our list of wonderfully captivating works found  in and around Sydney. From graffiti art to mural art, Sydney has plenty!

Must-See Sydney Mural Art in 2023

1. Celestine by Rone in Surry Hills

“Celestine” is a mural created by Australian street artist Rone in Surry Hills, Sydney. The mural, located on the side of a building, features a portrait of a woman in black and white with striking blue eyes. Rone paints large-scale portraits that are part of the urban landscape in cities around the world. “Celestine” is one of his signature pieces.  [Source: Street Art News]

2. Jenny Munro by Matthew Adnate in Redfern

“Jenny Munro” is a mural created by Australian street artist Matthew Adnate in Redfern, Sydney. The building mural features the portrait of Jenny Munro, an elder of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the traditional owners of the land that Sydney is built on. The mural is a tribute to the Aboriginal community and their rich cultural heritage.

Adnate is best-known for his culturally significant portraits that celebrate diversity and challenge societal norms. “Jenny Munro” is a powerful example of how street art can bring attention to important social and cultural issues, and serve as a symbol of respect and recognition for marginalised communities. [Source: ABC News]

Check out another one of Matthew’s murals in Melbourne: 15 Biggest Mural Paintings in the World!

3. The Woolloomooloo History Murals lead by Merilyn Fairskye and Michiel Dolk

The Woolloomooloo History Murals are a series of street art murals lead by activist artists Merilyn Fairskye and Michiel Dolk in Woolloomooloo, Sydney in 1982. The murals depict the history and cultural heritage of the Woolloomooloo neighborhood, including its indigenous and working-class roots. The murals serve as a celebration of the community’s history and a reminder of its cultural significance.

Eight of the sixteen murals are considered to be of high historical significance to the community. [Source: City of Sydney]

4. The Sea Wall at Bondi by Multiple Artists

Tick off two must-do activities in Sydney by visiting the beach AND the Bondi Sea Wall. Created by multiple artists The Bondi Sea Wall features features colorful, abstract and nature-inspired murals and designs that wrap around the entire sea wall. The mural is one of the largest street art projects in Sydney and has become a popular landmark and tourist destination.

The Sea Wall at Bondi mural serves as a way to beautify and transform an otherwise bland concrete wall into a vibrant and engaging public space. Street art like this can have a positive impact on the local community by creating a more visually appealing environment, and by fostering a sense of community pride. The mural also contributes to the cultural richness of Sydney, showcasing the talents of local artists and adding to the city’s artistic and cultural appeal.

Most murals are eventually painted over, but some are protected by the council due to their significance.[Source: Waverly Council]

5. Picasso by Scottie Marsh in Caringbah

The “Picasso” mural is a large-scale portrait of the famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso and is inspired by his iconic cubist style. The mural serves as a tribute to Picasso’s life and work and celebrates his contributions to the art world. It can be found on the side of a building in Caringbah, Sydney. Scottie Marsh designs large-scale murals that feature intricate patterns, bold colors, and a distinctive aesthetic that sets him apart from other street artists. [Source: Street Art Cities]

6. I Have a Dream by Juilee Pryor and Andrew Aiken

Sydney artists Juilee Pryor and Andrew Aiken painted the ‘I Have a Dream Mural’. The street art is a tribute to the famous “I Have a Dream” speech by civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. The mural serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. It is a symbol of hope and inspiration for future generations.

Painted in 1991, the artists were denied permission to paint on the wall. Despite the law, Pryor and Aiken painted throughout the night in secret. 

Mayor Mark Gardiner said, ‘Without heritage listing the mural is vulnerable to removal. When an artwork brings a new audience to it continually and each audience finds something satisfactory and also powerful and meaningful… then that artwork is truly powerful. It’s authentic.’ [Source: The Sydney Morning Herald]

7. Housing Bubble by Fintan Magee in Surry Hills

“Housing Bubble” is a mural by Fintan Magee in Surry Hills, Sydney. The mural depicts a person bursting out of a house, symbolising the issue of unaffordable housing in the city. The artwork also serves as a commentary on the gentrification and displacement of communities as well as the impact of the housing crisis on ordinary people.

Fintan Magee has gained international recognition for his street art and has painted murals in cities across the world, including Sydney, Melbourne, London, Berlin, and New York. He uses street art as a tool for social and political activism. Fintan creates murals that resonate with local communities and reflect their concerns and experiences. [Source: Street Art News]

8. IGA Mural by Alex Lehours in Newtown

An unnamed masterpiece created by Australian artist Alex Lehours can be found in Newtown, Sydney. The mural, located on the side of a local grocery store, features a colorful and whimsical design with elements inspired by the store’s offerings and the local community. The mural serves as a way to beautify the neighborhood and bring color and joy to the community. Alex Lehours has a playful and vibrant street art style. His mural in Newtown  is a great example of his work. 

He creates large-scale murals that feature whimsical designs and bright colors, often incorporating elements of nature, animals, and everyday objects into his work.  [Source: Newtown Graffiti Map]

9. Asylum Seekers Centre by Jumboist in Newtown

The Asylum Seekers Centre is a support centre for those seeking asylum in New South Wales. Street artist Jumboist designed a colouful artwork for the side of the building in Newtown. The mural features a powerful and emotional design that highlights the struggles and challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers.

Jumboist artwork is often  socially conscious and politically charged. His work continues to inspire and educate people around the world. [Source: Newtown Graffiti Map]

10. School Mural by Maxim and Rozelle in Yass

Post COVID Yass Public School decided they wanted to add some colour to one of their blank walls. They reached out to Book An Artist to connect with an artist who could design something that represented the school and the students. Maxim and Rozelle jumped at the opportunity to create something beautiful. “The design by Max and Roz just stood out, we loved it,” Belinda, a speaker on behalf of Yass Public School said. “It was contemporary and also colourful – undeniably what we wanted, even though we hadn’t known what we wanted.” 

Read more about Yass Public School’s mural journey via our blog.