Transforming Space: My Journey Creating a Mural for Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

The Living Room at Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Level 75.

Creating art in a public space is always an exhilarating experience, and when I was contacted by the international art curation company, ArtLink, to design and paint a mural for Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, I knew this project would be special. The opportunity to transform a space in such a prestigious hotel was both an honour and a challenge that I eagerly accepted.

Design Inspiration

The proposed mural design draws inspiration from the hibiscus flower, Malaysia's national flower, symbolising the brand's opening in Malaysia (the location), strength, unity, and vibrancy. Instead of depicting the hibiscus in its traditional form, the design takes a "deconstructed" approach, breaking down its elements into expressive shapes and dynamic compositions.

The artwork also draws influence from the curved lines and organic forms found in nature. The flowing nature of soft fabric and the intricate patterns of Malaysian batik motifs serve as visual references, contributing to the overall sense of grace, elegance, and cultural richness within the composition. These inspirations come together to create a design that feels both familiar and refreshingly abstract.

References from Pinterest that serve as visual inspo.

Deconstructed elements

Client likes the proposed design, but would like to explore more options for colours.

Working On-site

The mural painting took six days to complete, a process that involved meticulous planning, preparation, and execution. This foundational work is crucial, as it sets the stage for the colours and designs to shine. ArtLink has been very kindly helped with coordinate and ensure the wall is prepared and ready for painting.

As I began sketching the initial outlines of the mural, I felt a surge of excitement. The design was a blend of abstract shapes and traditional batik motifs, symbolising the harmony between the past and the present. I wanted to create a dialogue between the different elements, inviting viewers to explore the layers of meaning within the artwork.

The painting process itself was both meditative and exhilarating. Each stroke of the brush brought the mural closer to completion, and I found joy in the rhythm of painting. The vibrant colours began to emerge, transforming the once-blank wall into a dynamic visual narrative. I often stepped back to assess my work, ensuring that the composition flowed seamlessly and that the colours harmonised beautifully.

Throughout the process, I was fortunate to receive support from the team at Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. I appreciated their commitment to making this project a success. It was a collaborative effort, and I felt a sense of camaraderie as we worked together to enhance the hotel's ambiance.

Finally, after six intense days of hard work, the mural was complete. Stepping back to admire the finished piece was a moment of pure satisfaction. I hope the mural not only transformed the space, but it would also resonate with everyone who experienced it... it was a celebration of culture, creativity, and the beauty of collaboration.

In conclusion, creating a mural for Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur was an incredible journey that allowed me to express my artistic vision while contributing to a beautiful space. The experience taught me the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and the power of art to transform environments. I am grateful to ArtLink for the opportunity, to the team at Park Hyatt, and not forgetting the team from Morne Art for their unwavering support.

Image source from ArtLink's Instagram.

As I reflect on this project, I am reminded of the impact that art can have on our surroundings. It has the ability to inspire, and create connections among people. I look forward to future projects that allow me to continue exploring the intersection of art and space, and I hope to bring more vibrant murals to life in the years to come.

Also a big shoutout to the team at Morne Art! Here's Balkish (left) and Morne (right), whom also help with coordination, access, and hardware that I need during the production. Thank you!