Established in 2019, Tbilisi Mural Fest has a deceptively simple goal: to turn Georgia’s capital city into one huge public gallery. For the artist-organizers, who also create works under the moniker TMF Studio, contemporary murals have the ability to transform unsightly, blocky developments into giant works of art. The paintings are not only a pleasure to look at but also create a more inviting urban environment.

With a few exceptions, much of the recent work created for the festival is representational, showing people engaged in activities like harvesting grapes or dancing. International artists bring a variety of styles to often narrow, vertical compositions, adorning the sides of multilevel buildings.

Afzan Pirzade and TMF Studio, part of the “Dance” series

Through a wide range of figurative, geometric, or abstract styles, Tbilisi’s mural program is expanded each year, engaging viewers in both commercial and residential areas. Find more on the festival’s website and Instagram.

TMF Studio Detail of work by TMF Studio TMF Studio Edoardo Ettorre, “Concrete Horizons” Afzan Pirzade and Besik Maziashvili, “The Most Sacred Connection of All.” Photo by David Chalodze and Anano Kekelia Afzan Pirzade and Besik Maziashvili, “The Most Sacred Connection of All” (detail) Fintan Magee, “Girl in Mirrors” Afzan Pirzade and TMF Studio, “Samaya” Afzan Pirzade and TMF Studio, part of the “Dance” series (detail)