Mural FAQ: Everything You Didn't know you Needed to Ask

Lys Glassford
Jul 22
3 min read

Updated: Jul 22

Why Should I Invest in a Mural?

You’ve got a wall. A vibe. Maybe an idea that’s not quite fully formed, but you know it deserves more than beige paint or a framed poster. That’s where mural art comes in.

A mural is a large-scale, site-specific artwork painted directly onto a wall or permanent surface. It’s a way to make space feel like it means something.

If you’re a business owner trying to stand out, a homeowner wanting to inject personality, a community group dreaming of connection, or just someone who’s sick of blank walls... you’re in the right place.

Benefits of Murals for Businesses in BC

Increased foot traffic: Vibrant exterior murals make your storefront a destination.
Brand storytelling: A mural conveys your values and identity without a single word.
Social media magnet: Murals become free marketing when they show up in people's posts.
Targeted local connection: Commissioning a local BC muralist builds community trust and awareness.

Public murals in BC have helped businesses grow, made neighbourhoods safer, and turned alleyways into places people linger.

Benefits of Murals for Homeowners

Unique property personality: Custom artwork transforms private space into a personalized sanctuary.
Property value boost: Public-facing murals can improve curb appeal and resale interest.
Creative placemaking: Turning retaining walls, fences, or garden sheds into artwork makes a home feel alive.

Benefits of Murals for Community Groups & Municipalities

Crime prevention & beautification: Murals promote community ownership and pride, improving urban aesthetics.
Engagement tool: Collaboratively designed murals foster inclusion and help build local identity.
Grant eligibility: Murals are often eligible for municipal or provincial cultural grants when they engage local communities.

Where Do You Paint?

My home base is Nanaimo, BC, but I travel throughout Vancouver Island, and I’m actively expanding into Victoria and other parts of British Columbia. If you’ve got a project in your city, let’s talk logistics. Murals are worth the drive.

How Do I Get Started?

Start with the mural commission form right here on the site. That form helps me understand:

The wall or surface you want painted
Your vision and inspiration
Your budget (I don’t haggle. I design to fit your number)

After reviewing your submission, I’ll send over a quote tailored to your space, design complexity, and palette.

What Happens After I Get a Quote?

Here’s what you can expect in the mural process:

Quote & Design Contract
- Once you approve the quote, we enter into a non-refundable design agreement.
- You’ll receive an initial concept based on your form and our conversation.
- You get one round of feedback; minor tweaks are fine, but complete redesigns require a new agreement.
Final Design Sign-Off
- We finalize the mural design together.
- Once approved, we move into the painting phase.
Mural Phase
You’ll receive a new mural contract and request for a deposit to cover supplies and hold your spot in my calendar.
We’ll set a date, I'll show up with brushes and cans, and the magic begins.
After completion, you’ll receive a final invoice.

Can I Get a Mural for Free?

Let’s be real: I don’t work “for exposure.” If you’ve ever played Oregon Trail, you’ll know the outcome: “You have died of exposure.”

If you have a wall and no money, I might still paint it, but the creative control is mine. The piece will be cool, but you don’t get to dictate what goes on it. Think of it as urban generosity with artistic sovereignty.

If you're looking for a free mural and complete design control, I’m not the artist for you.

What If I Have a Great Idea But No Wall?

Sadly, I can’t help unless you’ve secured a surface and written permission from the wall’s owner. Ideas are great, but murals need a canvas (and legal clearance, I'm too old to run from the police).

Do You Collaborate on Mural Projects?

Yes, especially if you have a mural project and need a technician to execute it. I excel at working within someone else’s vision, arriving with professionalism, and helping to solve problems on-site. My goal is to bring your design to life without ego or guesswork.