Tbilisi, Georgia – Despite the ongoing political challenges in Georgia, the sixth edition of Tbilisi Mural Fest has successfully concluded, marking another significant milestone in the country’s urban art movement. Overcoming obstacles, the festival delivered an impactful program, painting the five largest cities in Georgia—Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, Gori, and Gurjaani—and creating over 20 new large-scale murals that now adorn the urban landscapes.
This year’s festival brought together an impressive lineup of international and local artists. Participants included Case Maclaim, Judith de Leeuw (GDL Street Art), Sasha Korban, Afsan Pirzade, Javier Barriga, Shozzi, Wedo, as well as celebrated Georgian artists such as Nanina, David Samkharadze, George Gigauri, and Tina Chertova. Each contributed distinct styles and perspectives, making the festival’s artistic output uniquely diverse and compelling. One of the most poignant works this year was a mural addressing the topic of Abkhazia, a region of Georgia currently under Russian occupation. This masterpiece, created by Tbilisi Mural Fest founder Besik Maziashvili in collaboration with invited artist Afsan Pirzade, serves as both a work of art and a statement of resilience and hope. The mural’s location adds even greater significance: it was painted on a building where the residents are refugees from the occupied region of Abkhazia. This choice transforms the artwork into a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance for those displaced by conflict.
This year, TMF also achieved a groundbreaking milestone by creating the largest mural in Georgia and the entire region. Standing at an impressive 65 meters tall and 20 meters wide, this monumental work is not only a record-setting achievement for the festival but also a testament to the growing influence of urban art in the region. The mural is a striking representation of the festival’s commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in large-scale public art. For the sixth year in a row, Tbilisi Mural Fest has been recognized as one of the best examples of contemporary street art worldwide. Its curated collection of murals continues to draw international acclaim, with previous years also earning the festival similar recognition for its innovation and cultural significance.
For the first time, TMF extended its reach beyond Tbilisi to include other major Georgian cities. The response from local communities, international media, and art enthusiasts has been overwhelmingly positive, further solidifying the festival’s reputation as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. As TMF celebrates six years of artistic innovation, it continues to demonstrate the unifying power of art in challenging times. This year’s achievements stand as a testament to the dedication of its organizers, artists, and supporters, and the festival looks forward to growing its legacy in years to come.
All images by Tbilisi Mural Fest