Behind the Scenes of a Full-time Muralist

There’s something magical about painting a mural. From the initial sketch to that final, satisfying brushstroke, the process is both exhilarating and exhausting in the best way. As an artist and muralist, I’ve had the chance to create large-scale works in places I never dreamed of, each one bringing its own set of challenges and joys. But there’s so much more to mural painting than what you see on the finished wall—so I wanted to take you behind the scenes of how it all comes together. By the way, if you want to start painting murals yourself - and get paid to do them for clients - my Online Mural Course will be perfect for you!

Starting with the Concept

Every mural starts as an idea. Whether it’s for a client, a local business, or a public space, the first step is always brainstorming. I work closely with my clients to understand their vision, the message they want to convey, and the mood they hope the mural will evoke. Is it meant to brighten a hotel lobby or add a touch of adventure to a restaurant’s interior?

Once I’ve got a clear sense of direction, I sketch out a concept. This is where my love for bold colors, abstract shapes, and playful designs comes to life. Whether I’m drawing inspiration from the Tetons or my latest travels, I aim to capture the energy and excitement that’s going to translate onto a wall.

The Right Tools

As much as the vision is important, so are the tools. I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to use the right paints and materials especially for murals that will live in high-traffic areas. I typically work with high-quality, long-lasting paints like Nova Acrylics, which hold their color vibrancy even after years of exposure. And let’s not forget my favorite brushes — Purdy brushes of all sizes. These are my go-to for any details that help bring my murals to life, whether I’m working on a hotel wall or a more intimate indoor space.

The Foundation of Every Mural

Before any paint touches the wall, the surface has to be prepped. This step is SO important for ensuring the longevity of the mural. Depending on the space, it might involve priming, sanding, or even patching up the surface to make sure the paint adheres perfectly. I always think of this stage as laying the foundation. It’s not the most glamorous part, but without it, the mural wouldn’t last.

Bringing the Design to Life

Once the wall is ready, the real fun begins. I start by transferring my sketch to the wall, either by projecting it or drawing it freehand, depending on the complexity of the design. Then, it’s time to paint!

This is the part of the process that really brings out my creativity. I start with broad strokes, laying down the background colors that set the tone. From there, it’s all about layering. Adding depth, shadows, and highlights to create a dynamic, textured effect. Murals are all about bold visuals, so I’m not afraid to go all in with vibrant hues and eye-catching patterns.

The Final Touches

The details are where a mural truly comes to life. This is where I finetune the design, adding in those intricate elements that make the mural pop. Whether it’s a tiny splash of color to balance out the composition or a subtle highlight to make a pattern stand out, these finishing touches are what elevate the piece from good to great.

Why I Love Painting Murals

When the mural is finally complete, there’s no better feeling than stepping back and seeing it all come together. The whole process, from concept to completion, is an adventure. Much like the off-the-beaten-path travels that inspire so much of my work. Each mural tells a story, and I love that my art can transform a space.

Painting a mural is more than just applying color to a wall; it’s about creating an experience. It’s about infusing a space with energy, passion, and creativity that will inspire everyone who walks past it.

Final Thoughts

Mural painting is one of my absolute favorite forms of creative expression. It’s bold, it’s colorful, and it challenges me to think big. Literally! Whether I’m working on a cozy indoor space or a massive outdoor wall, each mural is a unique journey. If you’re ever curious about the process or want to know more about commissioning a mural, feel free to reach out. I’d love to chat about how we can bring your vision to life with a one-of-a-kind mural. And, of course, if this got you excited to start your own journey of becoming a muralist, check out my Online Mural Course.