Furtively peeking around the corner, the Giant Rat mural awaits. This mural is not just paint on a wall. It is a playful piece of Penang’s vibrant street art scene.
The Giant Rat mural is found on Armenian Street Ghaut. It is an artwork accompanying the Giant Cat Mural. You can view them together as one.
Initially, some thought Artists for Stray Animals created the Giant Rat mural. This group is known as ASA. They are known for their 101 Lost Kittens project. However, an anonymous artist actually created the rat mural. This adds a layer of mystery to the artwork.
The mural depicts a giant rat. He looks a bit like Remy from Ratatouille. He is hiding around the corner. He seems to be avoiding the cat on the adjacent wall. The positioning suggests a humorous interaction between the two animals.
The Giant Cat mural is also known as “Skippy Comes to Penang.” Some just call it the Giant Cat Mural. It is part of the 101 Lost Kittens project. The project aimed to raise awareness about protecting animals. It also fostered love for pets. Artists planned 101 stray animals in total. All but one were cats. The exception was a dog.
To find the Giant Rat mural, walk from Weld Quay Ferry and Bus Terminal. Cross Weld Quay using the pedestrian bridge. Turn left. Walk along Weld Quay until you reach Armenian Street Ghaut. Walk past the intersection of Victoria Street. The mural will be on your right.
The Giant Rat mural appeared sometime after the Giant Cat mural. The anonymous artist placed the rat on the other side of the wall. The rat seems to be hiding from the cat around the building’s corner.
The street art in George Town has transformed the city. In 2012, the Penang Island Municipal Council commissioned Ernest Zacharevic. He is a Lithuanian artist. He created murals and interactive 3D art. This encouraged exploration of the city on foot. It also inspired other artists.
The Giant Rat mural is a “bonus” piece. It is one of many artworks found around the city. Not far from the Giant Rat are other cat-themed artworks. These include “Please Care n Bathe Me” or “Two Kittens in a Tub”. They are in the same alley.
The Giant Rat mural adds to the charm of Armenian Street Ghaut. It is a fun surprise for those exploring George Town’s street art. The mural captures a lighthearted moment. It reflects the creativity and humor found throughout Penang. So keep your eyes peeled. You never know what artistic treasures await around each corner.