Bigger is Better: Mural-size Artworks are Magnificent

4 Good Reasons Why You Should Create Over-size Artworks

It was over twenty years ago, I visited The Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) and cast my eyes on the famous artwork by Georges Seurat’s, “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte“. This original painting at 81 3/4″ x 121 1/4″ (approx. 6′x10′ft) is viewed by thousands of gallery guests each day who are drawn to its magnificent size and  true-to-life scale.

You may not have noticed, but this artwork also receives more attention in art books (usually a cover image), it is also a best-seller on art poster sites and it is often featured in art guides and historical texts. Is it that special? It may be the largest impressionist painting created during this period, perhaps Georges Seurat was onto something?

The Art Institute of Chicago boasts having one of the largest collections of impressionist art, so there was lots to see that day. However, it is this artwork that remains fresh in my mind so many years later. Could a mural-size artwork really create a longer-lasting impression? If its bigger will it be more popular? ….I’m thinking…possibly…”yes”.

Appreciation for oversize artwork continues to be strong well into the twenty-first century—noting the 2007 exhibition (also at the AIC, by coincidence) of artwork by Jeff Wall. Described in the galleries’ press release:

“The size and scale of the works in Jeff Wall, measuring on average 6 feet by 8 feet, are testaments to the ambitions of permanence the artist brings to photography—as grand as monumental painting of the past three centuries..”

Some more recent art installations remind me once again that “bigger is (often) better”.

Recently, an international designer approached us about making a mural size artwork by “Vineyard Collection” artist, Merle Somerville. Advances in digital imaging and archival printmaking have made it possible for artists of all mediums to take advantage of the oversize trend.

Merle’s artwork was created using a 12 mega pixel digital camera and he expressed concerns about making the enlargement. We convinced him otherwise, when Fidelis experts remastered his digital file to allow for an enlargement to almost 10ft wide. Here is an example of how the image is to be to be used in a restaurant setting. If the project gets the go-ahead, the art mural would be printed on an adhesive vinyl, that can be laminated for maximum protection from scuffing, liquid and even food spills! The final effect is wonderful—a wine bar with a very unique picture window.

Another project comes to mind, where painters Alan Wylie and Mike Svob were commissioned to paint a 256ft. mural titled “Beautiful BC”. The artists created the original at a fraction of the final size allowing the artists to work at a comfortable scale, develop the creative concept and retain the originals (for possible sale at a later date). The final art piece was digitally printed (mural size) and will be installed in several locations.  Here’s a documentary-style video about the project. (Note: Approx.10 mins view time).

Fidelis had the pleasure of working with Canadian artist, Roy Arden on a public artwork titled “Big House” (shown left). Fidelis Photoshop expert, Jan Hynek worked under the creative direction of Roy to create the necessary digital files; that would later be silk-screened to complete the artists’ creative vision. This dynamic artwork spans 195 feet and commands a great deal of attention in the prestigious Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre.

Still not convinced that mural-size artworks are better?

Here’s 4 good reasons why you should create over-size artworks

1/ You can charge more for your work (if you price by square inch or by cost of materials)

2/ Over size artworks command greater attention—hence improve marketing and long-term recognition of your work

3/ Current interior design trends are focussing on oversize artworks

4/ It will hold more value in the future

I encourage you to explore creating oversize artworks and see how they might impact your art business. At our studio, fees for testing—in order to explore various sizes—are minimal. Ask your printmaker about testing your artwork at a “grand” size and let us know about the results.

We want to hear your comments…

Do you think a reproduction should exceed the size of the original?

Would you pay more for an artwork because it was bigger?

Share a photo featuring a mural you have created? Or an oversize artwork that left you with a lasting impression.

Thank you for commenting!

Karen