Creating a mural is a journey, a process that involves much more than just picking up a paintbrush and going to work. As a mural artist based in Columbus, Ohio, I’ve been fortunate enough to transform various public spaces into vibrant, storytelling pieces of art. But behind each of these creations lies a thoughtful and intentional process that brings a concept to life. Today, I want to share a glimpse of what that process looks like — from concept to completion.
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Concept Development
The process begins with understanding the space and the vision behind the project. Every mural is unique because it reflects the identity of its environment, whether it’s a building, a community, or a business. During the initial consultation, I meet with the client — whether it’s a business owner, community leader, or organization — to discuss their vision, goals, and ideas. This phase is all about listening, gathering inspiration, and learning what message the mural should convey.
Once I have a sense of what the client wants, I dive into brainstorming and sketching. I think about the story I want to tell, the colors that will work best with the space, and the style that will connect with the audience. At this stage, I may create multiple mock-ups, allowing the client to see how different ideas might look in the space. Collaboration is key here, and it’s always exciting to see a concept start to take shape.
Step 2: Preparing the Surface
After the concept is approved, the next step is preparing the wall or surface. This part is essential for ensuring the mural will last for years to come. Depending on the condition of the surface, I may need to clean, patch, or prime it before I can start painting. Some surfaces may require more prep work than others, especially if there’s damage or peeling paint. I also ensure that the materials I use, from paints to sealers, are durable and weather-resistant. In Columbus, we deal with varying weather conditions, so I need to make sure the mural can withstand the elements.
Step 3: Transferring the Design
Now comes the exciting part — getting the design on the wall! This is when the mural starts to come alive. Using a grid method or projection, I transfer the sketch onto the wall, maintaining the proportions and details of the original design. This process can take time, but it’s crucial for laying the foundation of the mural. It’s like a roadmap that guides me through the painting process.
Step 4: Painting
With the design in place, I begin painting. This is where the mural really takes form, and it’s the most time-consuming part of the process. I work layer by layer, starting with the larger shapes and blocking in the background colors before moving on to the finer details. Painting a mural requires patience, focus, and a good eye for detail. Some days are spent on sweeping, bold strokes, while others are spent adding the finer touches — intricate textures, highlights, and shading that bring the piece to life.
Step 5: Sealing & Final Touches
Once the painting is finished, the mural is sealed to protect it from the elements. This protective coating ensures that the colors stay vibrant and that the mural can endure the tests of time and weather. After the sealer is applied, I take one final pass to inspect the piece, adding any finishing touches or adjustments that might be needed.
Step 6: Reveal & Reflection
The final step is always the most rewarding — unveiling the completed mural. There’s something great about seeing people interact with the art, whether it’s through reflection or simply enjoying the beauty it adds to their environment. For me, the process is not just about creating something visually stunning, but also about contributing to the community and making a lasting impact. Every mural has a story, and I’m honored to tell that story with each new project.
The mural process is a blend of creativity, collaboration, and craftsmanship. It’s a journey that starts with a vision and ends with a piece of art that speaks to the heart of a space. Each mural I create holds a piece of me, and I’m excited to continue this journey with every wall I transform.