Widely recognised Tbilisi Mural Fest 2024 has once again transformed the urban landscape of Georgia, bringing vibrant colors and powerful messages to the streets. This year, the festival expanded its reach beyond the capital, Tbilisi, to include cities like Kutaisi, Batumi, Gori, and Gurjaani.
Tbilisi Mural Fest’s sixth edition brought together an impressive lineup of international and local artists. Participants included Case Maclaim, Judith de Leeuw (GDL Street Art), Sasha Korban, Afsan Pirzade, Javier Barriga, Sh0zi, Wedo, Cristian Sticaru, Innerfields, INO, as well as celebrated Georgian artists such as Nanina, David Samkharadze, George Gigauri, and Tina Chertova. Each contributed distinct styles and perspectives, making the festival’s artistic output uniquely diverse and compelling.
The festival also reached a groundbreaking milestone with the creation of one of the largest murals in the entire region. The colossal artwork, painted by Afsan Pirzade is a stunning 65 meters tall and 20 meters wide. The mural is a vivid testament to the festival’s dedication to pushing artistic boundaries and establishing new benchmarks in large-scale public art. It serves as a beacon of creativity, showcasing the transformative power of art in urban environments.
Themes and murals
The 2024 Tbilisi Mural Fest featured a rich tapestry of themes that resonated deeply with both local and international audiences.
Several murals addressed themes of resilience and hope, particularly in the context of historical and ongoing challenges. One of the most poignant works this year was the mural created by Besik Maziashvili and Afsan Pirzade in Tbilisi highlighted the plight of refugees from the Abkhazia region, serving as a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance.
Another important theme in the festival’s last edition is significance of cultural heritage and traditions. An example of this is Afsan Pirzade’s mural in Gurjaani. The mural celebrates the unique identity of Georgian wine culture, drawing upon archival materials to create a rich tapestry of history and tradition.
Another significant piece is Judith de Leeuw’s mural titled “Rebirth,” which honors Georgian culture by focusing on themes of survival and the warrior spirit.
Similarly, Tina Chertova’s mural featured traditional lace-like patterns and motifs, blending historical elements with contemporary art.
The theme of community and togetherness was also prevalent in several works. Murals depicted scenes of communal activities, such as preparing food and celebrating local customs. These artworks emphasized the importance of unity and collective identity in Georgian society.
A mother’s love by Chilean artist Javier Barriga.
Portrait of philosopher Merab Mamardashvili, was created by David Samkharadze.
Innerfields mural “Appetizer” is a beautiful ode to capitalism, gambling and vacation time.
iNOs wall titled “Bleeding Heart” draws inspiration from the legendary tale of Jason, seamlessly continuing the mythological narrative that defines the Nicaea district.
Expanding Horizons
For the first time, TMF extended its reach beyond Tbilisi to include other major Georgian cities such as Batumi and Kutaisi. This expansion has been met with enthusiastic responses from local communities, international media, and art enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of these cities has further solidified the festival’s reputation as a dynamic platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. The murals created in these new locations have sparked conversations about the role of art in society and have brought vibrant colors and thought-provoking imagery to urban landscapes across Georgia.
Looking Ahead
As TMF celebrates six years of artistic innovation, it continues to demonstrate the unifying power of art in challenging times. This year’s achievements are a testament to the dedication of its organizers, artists, and supporters. The festival has not only enriched the cultural fabric of Georgia but has also inspired a new generation of artists and art lovers. Looking ahead, TMF aims to expand its reach even further, exploring new themes and collaborations that will continue to elevate the festival’s impact. The organizers are committed to growing the festival’s legacy, ensuring that it remains a beacon of creativity and a catalyst for positive change in the years to come.
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Author: Fran
Founder and editor of Urbanite. Street Art lover who after the finishing her MA thesis on the Mexican and Norwegian muralist movement in the 1920-50s, developed a fascination for street art and graffiti that eventually led to collaborations with different art blogs, including the creation of this one.
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