Tips For The Wannabe Muralist » Art Center Information

Wall Mural by artist, Lynn Burton

As an artist, you may desire to become a muralist. It’s very significant for a beginner to understand that they must have the ability to create a three-dimensional illusion onto a two-dimensional surface, and this depends on draftsmanship. This takes practice and experience. Many wannabe muralist may find painting easier than drawing or vice versa. With practice and experience comes improvement.

Tip: Make a black and white drawing on 8-1/2”X11-1/2” paper which can easily be transferred to a large wall by a projector or a grid method of free drawing.

Just because an artist has the talent to be a good muralist does not mean they have the business and sales experience or ability to become a successful muralist. First, they have to sell the job. They should never do a mural job without a written contract. A good rule to understand is that they probably are bidding a job against competition. There are many good muralists out there. A muralist does not want to find out after the fact that they underbid the job. Being a muralist is a business. The muralist should be paid properly for their talent and effort. There are many factors to consider.

Decide on an hourly rate. Determine how long it will take to do the mural. (Only experience will answer this.) The cost of materials.

Determine the square foot of the mural.