Exploring George Town’s Street Art: Penang’s Open-Air Gallery

Penang is often called the food capital of Malaysia, but George Town’s street art scene is just as unforgettable. This UNESCO World Heritage city has transformed into an open-air gallery where every corner tells a story.

It all began in 2012 when Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic created a series of murals as part of a city project. Today, his famous “Kids on Bicycle” piece draws travelers from around the world, and dozens of other works—both murals and wrought-iron caricatures—have followed. They don’t just decorate walls; they weave Penang’s culture, humor, and history into the city’s everyday life.

Wandering the streets, you’ll find vibrant scenes of daily life: children playing, rickshaws in motion, and nods to Penang’s diverse Chinese, Indian, and Malay roots. The mix of colorful murals against heritage shophouses makes for photos you’ll treasure long after your trip.

📸 Tip: Arrive early in the morning when the streets are quiet, or explore in the evening when the art feels even more alive against glowing lanterns.

Penang inspires the artist in all of us—but next, we’ll swap the urban vibe for the cool, misty beauty of Malaysia’s highlands.