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The sixth edition of Tbilisi Mural Fest has successfully wrapped up 2024, marking another significant milestone in the country’s urban art movement. The festival delivered an impactful program, transforming five large cities in Georgia—Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, Gori, and Gurjaani—and creating over 20 new large-scale murals that now the urban landscapes.
This year’s festival 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, Shozzi, Wedo, Christian Stikaru, 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.
For the first time, Tbilisi Mural Fest extended its reach beyond Tbilisi to include other major Georgian cities. The response from local communities, international media, and art enthusiasts has been overwhelmingly positive, further solidifying the festival’s reputation as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue.
The Murals of Tbilisi Mural Fest 2024
One of the most poignant works this year was a mural addressing the topic of Abkhazia, a region of Georgia currently under Russian occupation. This masterpiece, created by Tbilisi Mural Fest founder Besik Maziashvili in collaboration with invited artist Afsan Pirzade, serves as both a work of art and a statement of resilience and hope. The mural’s location adds even greater significance: it was painted on a building where the residents are refugees from the occupied region of Abkhazia. This choice transforms the artwork into a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance for those fallen or displaced by conflict.
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
A portrait of Merab Mamardashvili, the philosopher, was created by David Samkharadze in his hometown of Gori.
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
The JDL mural titled “Rebirth” honours Georgian culture, focusing on themes of survival and the warrior spirit. It features two Georgian women: one with a pained gaze directed upward and the other, adorned in warrior attire on the right, embodying strength and resilience.
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
Afzan Pirzade’s mural in Gurjaani, located in the renowned wine region of Kakheti, draws upon archival material to create a rich tapestry of history and culture. The artwork reflects the deep-rooted heritage of the area, intertwining traditional elements with contemporary expression to celebrate the unique identity of Georgian wine culture.
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
This year, Tbilisi Mural Fest also achieved a groundbreaking milestone by creating the largest mural in Georgia and the entire region. Standing at an impressive 65 meters tall and 20 meters wide, this monumental work is not only a record-setting achievement for the festival but also a testament to the growing influence of urban art in the region. The mural is a striking representation of the festival’s commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in large-scale public art.
Ino’s “Bleeding Heart” is a stunning 14-story mural that draws inspiration from the legendary tale of Jason, seamlessly continuing the mythological narrative that defines the Nicaea district. This work not only enhances the area’s artistic landscape but also resonates with the rich stories of its past, weaving vibrant imagery into the cultural fabric of the community.
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
JDL has painted another remarkable piece inspired by the legend of Medea, the storied figure from Colchis. This artwork serves as a poignant reminder of Georgia’s deep connections to myth and legend, intricately linked to Jason’s narrative (above).
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
This mural is located in Kutaisi and beautifully incorporates the themes associated with Rezo Gabriadze, the renowned Georgian film and theatre director, screenwriter, author, and artist. His handcrafted sketch is nestled within the historical heart of the city, adding a unique artistic touch to the area’s rich heritage.
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
Chilean artist Javier Barriga has created a beautiful piece titled “Close to Me,” inspired by the poignant poem of Nobel Prize-winning poet Gabriela Mistral.
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
Another striking mural by Saha Korban has been unveiled in the heart of the Kakheti wine region, celebrating the artistry of winemaking.
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
Tina Chertova has integrated a traditional lace-like pattern into a striking blue multi story mural that features an array of birds, people, deer, and other decorative motifs. In this vibrant composition, some figures take on mythical personas, while others engage in culinary preparations and embody a sense of togetherness, beautifully showcasing the interconnection of culture and community.
Discover the new murals from this year’s festival showcased below…
Tbilisi Mural Fest. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
Tbilisi Mural Fest 2024. Image Copyright Keti Maziashvili.
