GEORGE TOWN: Three iconic murals here will be restored by their original painter, Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic.
The murals, namely "Children On A Bicycle" in Lebuh Armenian, "Boy On Chair" in Lebuh Cannon and "Boy On A Bike" in Lebuh Ah Quee will be repainted to their original colours.
Zacharevic, 38, is expected to complete the project by early October.
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He said minor touch-up work was done in 2019 but the restoration this time would be more thorough.
"There will be no changes to the artwork and props supporting the murals will be refurbished.
"The entire project is expected to take about a week to complete," he told the press here on Wednesday (Sept 25).
State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the murals have become landmarks and attracted global attention, attracting tourists from around the world.
"The artworks have contributed to Penang's recognition as a hub for both colonial heritage and contemporary street art.
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"However, as time has passed, the murals have naturally weathered, and many residents and visitors have expressed concern over their gradual deterioration.
"Responding to concerns of locals, we reached out to Zacharevic, and after discussions, we are delighted to have reached an agreement to restore the murals," he said.
Zacharevic painted the murals for the 2012 George Town Festival after he was commissioned by the state to depict Penang’s idyllic lifestyle.
