People often see the finished mural but don’t always realize how much planning, design, and problem-solving happens before paint ever touches the wall. As a mural artist in Columbus, I’ve learned that creating a successful mural is just as much about communication and design as it is about painting.
Every mural project starts with a conversation. Some clients have a very specific idea, while others simply know they want something creative that transforms their space. My first job is understanding the purpose of the mural. Is it meant to attract attention from the street? Reinforce a brand identity? Create a more inspiring atmosphere inside a workspace? The answers shape every design decision that follows.
Once I understand the vision, I begin developing concepts and sketches. This stage is one of the most important parts of the mural process because scale changes everything. A design that works on paper may feel completely different when expanded across a 20-foot wall. I think carefully about composition, visibility, color balance, and how the artwork interacts with the architecture around it.
Color selection is another major part of mural design. Colors affect mood, energy, and readability. Bright, high-contrast murals can create a bold public statement, while softer palettes may fit better in offices, wellness spaces, or residential interiors. I also consider lighting, viewing angles, and how people move through the space.
Before painting begins, wall preparation is critical. A great mural starts with a properly prepared surface. Depending on the wall material, that may involve cleaning, sanding, priming, or repairing imperfections. Exterior murals especially require durable materials that can handle changing weather conditions in Ohio.
The painting process itself can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the size and complexity of the project. Large-scale murals require patience and flexibility. Sometimes adjustments happen in real time as the artwork develops on the wall. That’s part of what makes murals unique compared to digital design they evolve physically within the space.
One of my favorite parts of the process is seeing how people react as the mural comes together. Even halfway through painting, a wall can completely change the energy of a room or building exterior. People become curious, conversations start, and the space begins to feel more alive.
As an artist, I’m always trying to create murals that feel intentional and lasting. Good mural design isn’t only about making something visually impressive it’s about creating artwork that connects with people and belongs naturally in its environment.
That’s what continues to inspire me about mural work in Columbus. Every wall presents a new creative challenge and an opportunity to transform a space through thoughtful design and large-scale art.