All Posts By

blackbookink

blackbookink
In Artist Interviews

Featured Artist – Nico

sydney street art

featured artist

Featured Artist – Nico

BBINK: Where & how did you grow up and how do you think this affected you on your journey towards being a street artist?

I grew up near Hornsby and was always interested in art. When I was a little kid I was always drawing stuff. I hated sports and instead would sit inside drawing. I remember seeing some graffiti in American magazines and videos. This captivated me as a young teen, I started noticing what little graffiti there was in my local area which.

In my teens I started painting graffiti. It was more of a social activity that I just did with mates to pass the time and have fun. I think this early experience in painting walls and art definitely, lead my progression to doing what I do now. Even though it’s completely different.

BBINK: When/How did you know you wanted to be a street artist?

To be honest I still don’t know. It was just something that sort of happened without me ever planning for it.

BBINK: How did you learn to do what you do?

Making art as a child lead me to develop lots of important skills. Painting walls as a teenager taught me how to use spray paint. Like everyone else at the time we had to use poor quality paint and stock nozzles. Which I think is something that kids today miss out on. It gave me a better understanding of how spray paint works and I am thankful for that. I learned a lot of tips as a kid from people that I painted with and still continue to learn from other painters today.

BBINK: How long have you been a professional artist?

I’ve been living off of art and design ever since I left school 13 years ago. It’s all that I have ever done and I’m grateful for that.

street art sydney

BBINK: Who are some of the inspirations for you and your art? Did this help guide you to where you are today?

I am inspired by artists and designers of many different disciplines. I love traditional Eastern European folk art. In particular I attribute a lot of my aesthetic to this. My influences come from many of my peers over my life, but  there have been a couple that have helped me shape my art to what it is today – Doose (RIP) was an integral part in teaching me the ropes when I started painting walls and gave me the foundation for my art. My brother Perks inspired me and has always been my partner in making art and this has been important to me. Phibs has been a huge inspiration to me and I continue to learn from him. His skill and dedication to his art is something that has always inspired me.

BBINK: What are your specialty skills in the field of work you are in? Why do you enjoy them the most? 

A lot of my work is decorative and pattern based. I enjoy making art that is decorative.  My love of traditional folk art comes from a variety of different cultures. This has shaped my public art making practice. I consider myself to be following the ancient traditions of folk artists. Who painted murals rather than being a “street artist” by the modern definition.

BBINK: What are your personal goals now and in the future as an artist?

My only goals are to enjoy myself and grow as an artist. Each day we live is a gift and I am happy to be able to do what I love.

BBINK: What are some of your most prestigious honors, awards, achievements, and renown clients? 

Over the years I have been lucky enough to have done some jobs for big clients. As well as exhibited and published in books all around the world. In my mind, the most rewarding pieces of art that I have made are the ones that people enjoy. I have done artworks for collectors before and they just get locked away in vast collections. I find nothing more satisfying than handing a sketch to a young artist or member of the pubic. As it then actually means something to them.

 BBINK: What’s the biggest misconception other people have of  street artists?

That they are not artists.

 BBINK: Tell us a little about how you like to work. (Alone, with others, in phases, details, etc…)

I like to have a rough idea for a wall before I start painting but then just let the wall kind of paint itself. This is my favourite type of painting as it’s a bit of an adventure for me too.

BBINK: What software / equipment do you work with and for how long have you used it?

When i’m making murals I generally just use spray paint.

BBINK: What do you hope to achieve with your art?

I hope to keep growing as an artist and continue to enjoy art making. I also hope to bring people in the community happiness through art.

BBINK: Thank you for your time. We look forward to seeing more of your amazing work!

  • rooftop street art
  • garage street art
  • office mural
  • canvas artwork
  • street art sydney
  • urban art australia
  • urban art

You can find more of Nico’s work at https://www.artofnico.com/

blackbookink
In Artist Interviews

Featured Artist – Puke

graffiti writer

newcastle graffiti artist

BBINK: Where & how did you grow up and how do you think this affected you on your journey towards being a  graffiti writer?

I grew up in Port Stephens.. In my home town there were 2 pieces I remember from 87-88 (scene & topcat). The next piece I saw was on a 1/4 pipe skate ramp we bought off a mate (I’m pretty sure my mates older brothers were responsible for the topcat piece).. That’s the first memories I have of graff. From that point I have always looked at graffiti with curiosity and an open mind.. But I was a good kid back then….

BBINK: When/How did you know you wanted to be an artist/graffiti writer? 

Ummm, I didn’t think of graff as art when I started. My first experiences doing graffiti were a lot of fun. In fact more fun than any other experience I had at this stage in my life..  I started tagging with markers and shoe polish with my brother (R.I.P) and some friends…. This quickly escalated to raiding our dads garage for spray paint, then we started racking paint and bombing the streets (92-93). So it’s at this stage I was hooked on the excitement, adrenalin, and doing something that was different from regular humans.

BBINK:  How did you learn to do what you do?

 The first person to take some time out for me and give me some pointers was Tunz. I was pretty clueless about piecing before I met him, he showed me proportions, balance and structure… I guess he laid the foundations. Things moved quickly after I moved to Sydney and met Jiesk, who took me to the next level, along with Krush we all focused on our letter structures. 

 BBINK:  How long have you been a graffiti writer? 

24 years of graffiti! Still got plenty left in me

BBINK: What/Who are some of the inspirations for you and your art? Did this help guide you to where you are today?

My friends have always been the biggest part of who I am as a writer, it’s my friends who continue to inspire me in different ways. Jiesks style and dedication commands respect and is my single biggest influence   Krush helped me develop my style too.. All my friends have been and continue to be a massive inspiration- Sekt, Shine, Tuns and Kawps all in different ways. Melbourne is a big source for me too at the moment! So much history, so much talent, so much graffiti! It’s a very positive scene and has really inspired me to paint more. 

melbourne graffiti art

BBINK: What are your specialty skills in the field(s) of work you are in? Why do you enjoy them the most?

I specialise in the fine arts of sinking piss. I enjoy it most

BBINK: What are your personal goals now and in the future as an artist?

I hope to achieve the perfect piece one day.  

BBINK: What’s the biggest misconception other people have of  graffiti artists?

The common misconception is that we cause damage when we paint! The fact is its paint; paint protects surfaces! As for trains, our spray paint doesn’t stick very well to glass and steel or shiny 2pac finished surfaces… So we (writers) get the blame for excessive train ticket prices..meanwhile our government just signed a $700 million deal with a Japanese company to take care of the myki ticketing system used on ‘ public’ transport system that’s actually privately owned by offshore companies… 

BBINK: Tell us a little about how you like to work. (Alone, with others, in phases, details, etc…)

I like to sketch a lot. I feel sketching is where my style develops the most. When I’m sketching I’m trying to achieve a fresh look, focusing on letter structures and the way they work with each other. To me fills, colours, neatness and effects only compliment a good outline. 

BBINK: In your opinion, what are some major changes that has happened within the graffiti scene since you started?

 First one is paint! The quality is much better and they are now very user friendly. This has made piecing easier than ever.. I also feel that as the paint was changing (It was late 90s when the first writers paint hit Aussie shores) styles and techniques changed/adapted to the new paint and nozzle systems. For example, ghost cap finals vs power plus push forward finals.. Each system slightly changed the way we paint.. Generally we paint larger pieces in  2016 compared to the nineties. 

Second is social media/internet. The Internet has increased exposure both of current and old pieces in all corners of the globe! It’s helped unite and strengthen the whole community of writers. 

BBINK: Do you feel like invented or developed something very unique yourself?

I’ve invented some words

BBINK: What would you say is the most important thing to you about graffiti?

Having fun! If you don’t enjoy it then you are doing it wrong!

 BBINK: Thank you very much for your time and we look forward to seeing more of your amazing work! 

Cheers blood! Keep up the good work

  • graffiti art melbourne
  • hire graffiti artist melbourne
  • graffiti wall newtown
  • graffiti writer
  • melbourne graffiti
  • sydney graffiti wall
  • graffiti artist for hire sydney
  • sydney graffiti artist
  • graffiti artist newcastle
  • hire graffiti artist brisbane
  • Sydney graffiti artist puke
  • melbourne street art

Photos: @jieskie

blackbookink
In Art News, Information

The Benefits of Office Murals in the Workplace

office graffiti

Office murals are becoming increasingly popular across businesses and corporate environments. What was once seen as a luxury is now being recognised as a valuable addition to the workplace.

As businesses evolve, creating an inviting and stimulating atmosphere in the workplace has become essential. Office murals serve as a visual representation of a company’s culture and values, impacting not just aesthetics but also employee engagement and productivity. By integrating vibrant designs, companies can foster a more dynamic and innovative environment that inspires creativity among their employees.

Many businesses underestimate the real impact that murals can have. Beyond aesthetics, they contribute to productivity, workplace culture, and overall employee experience.

Murals can also provide a sense of community within the workplace. For instance, a mural that highlights local landmarks or achievements can instill pride among employees, reminding them of their shared goals and collective identity. Furthermore, thematic murals can spark conversations, encouraging teamwork and collaboration.

These outcomes are part of the broader benefits of murals seen across commercial, public, and educational spaces.

How Office Murals Can Ease Your Pain

Moreover, the process of selecting or commissioning a mural can itself be an engaging team-building activity, where employees contribute ideas or vote on designs that resonate with them. This not only makes the mural more meaningful but also deepens employees’ connection to their workplace.

Below is a brief explanation of how office murals can transform a workspace that might otherwise feel bland or uninspiring.

Integrating nature into office design has gained popularity, with studies showing that natural elements can enhance well-being. Murals featuring greenery or landscapes can create a calming atmosphere, counteracting the stress often associated with corporate environments.

Studies into workplace psychology  including research by Dr. Craig Knight from the University of Exeter, suggest that the design of a workspace can directly influence how people perform and feel.

The choice of colors in murals can influence mood and productivity. Warm colors like orange and yellow are known to stimulate creativity and energy, while cooler colors like blue can promote a sense of tranquility and focus. Thus, selecting the right color palette for murals is crucial in establishing the desired workplace atmosphere.

Murals in office environments have been linked to:

  • Increased creativity
  • Elevated productivity
  • Reduced stress
  • Improved morale
  • Stronger connection to the workplace

By introducing visual elements into a workspace, businesses can create environments that feel more engaging and less repetitive.

Additionally, murals can serve as a canvas for employees to express their creativity. Encouraging staff contributions can lead to unique designs that reflect the workforce’s diverse talents and backgrounds, further enhancing workplace culture.

Creating a Stronger Workplace Culture

This visual storytelling can be particularly effective for businesses looking to attract younger audiences who value authenticity and creativity in their workplaces. By showcasing stories through murals, companies can establish a narrative that resonates with clients and employees alike.

Office murals do more than improve how a space looks. They help communicate what a business stands for.

Furthermore, murals can also address social issues, making a powerful statement about the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. For example, murals that celebrate various cultures or advocate for social justice can help create a more inclusive workplace.

Murals can:

  • Reflect company values
  • Reinforce branding
  • Create a more welcoming environment
  • Encourage interaction between employees

Employees often report a higher level of satisfaction when working in spaces that feel considered and visually engaging.

The Impact on Clients & Visitors

Murals don’t just affect employees, they also influence how clients perceive your business.

Additionally, the emotional connection fostered by murals can lead to improved customer experiences. Clients are likely to feel more engaged and appreciated in a visually stimulating environment, which can facilitate better business relationships.

A well-designed mural can:

  • Create a strong first impression
  • Make your space more memorable
  • Act as a visual talking point

This can be especially important in offices where clients visit regularly.

See how this is applied in real spaces:
Corporate mural projects

Murals as a Long-Term Business Asset

illustration office mural

bitcoin graffiti art office murals

Murals are not just a one-off visual upgrade, they are long-term assets.

As design trends shift, companies that invest in murals can stay relevant and visually appealing to clients and employees. This commitment to aesthetics can set a company apart from competitors and attract talent that values creativity in the workplace.

They can:

  • Improve employee experience
  • Strengthen brand identity
  • Enhance the overall environment

Unlike temporary design elements, murals become part of the workplace itself.

Explore more about
custom mural services

indoor wall murals

technology graffiti art

How Murals Can Increase Engagement & Visibility

Ultimately, the strategic use of murals can enhance branding. By aligning mural themes with marketing strategies, businesses can create a cohesive brand message that resonates through visual storytelling, both internally and externally.

Many businesses also find that murals influence how people interact with their space.

Murals can:

  • Attract attention from outside the business
  • Encourage social media engagement
  • Create opportunities for organic exposure

Read more about how murals increase foot traffic

Why Businesses Are Investing in Murals Now

As workplaces continue to evolve, businesses are placing more focus on environments that support both productivity and culture. Office murals are becoming a key part of this shift, helping companies move away from generic spaces and towards more intentional, engaging design.

Murals offer a practical way to stand out, especially in competitive industries where brand perception matters. When combined with a clear concept and professional execution, they can transform not just the look of a space, but how people experience it on a daily basis.

commercial office art

street art canvas artworks

From Concept to Completion

At Blackbook Ink, we’ve worked with businesses to transform office spaces into environments that reflect their identity and values.

Each project is developed based on:

  • The client brief
  • The space
  • The intended outcome

Whether it’s a feature wall, full office mural, or custom artwork, the goal is to create something that adds lasting value.

Learn more about
our mural process

Office Murals Across Sydney

Businesses across Sydney are increasingly using murals to differentiate themselves and create more engaging environments.

Moreover, showcasing local artists in mural projects can strengthen community ties and reflect the company’s support for the arts. This partnership can enhance a company’s reputation and attract clients who share similar values.

View examples of
Sydney mural projects

Is an Office Mural Right for Your Business?

If you have a workspace that could benefit from a stronger visual identity, a mural can be an effective way to transform the environment.

To assess whether a mural is right for your business, consider conducting employee surveys to gather feedback on desired themes and styles. This inclusive approach ensures that the final mural resonates with the workforce, enhancing its effectiveness.

Explore our corporate mural services or get in touch to discuss your project.

Investing in high-quality murals can yield long-term benefits. With proper maintenance, murals can last for years, making them a cost-effective solution for enhancing office environments over time.

Ready to Transform Your Office Space?

Take the next step and consult with mural professionals to explore custom designs that align with your business’s vision. The right murals can not only transform your office space but also elevate your brand’s identity in the marketplace.

Get a Quote Today

blackbookink
In Art News

Benefits of Murals

street art mural community impact - Artist: Styna

Why Invest in Street Art & Murals?

Street art and murals have evolved far beyond their early perception as something temporary or controversial. Today, they are recognised as a powerful tool for transforming spaces, engaging communities, and adding long-term value.

Across Australia, businesses, councils, and schools are increasingly investing in mural art  not just for aesthetics, but for measurable results.

If you’re considering a mural, understanding the real benefits can help you make the right decision.

Murals Transform Spaces Instantly

A professionally designed mural can completely change how a space is experienced.

Instead of blank or ageing walls, murals create a strong visual identity that draws attention and adds character.

For businesses, this often leads to:

  • Increased foot traffic
  • Stronger brand recognition
  • More social media engagement

If you’re looking to transform your space, explore our custom mural services

Proven Economic & Community Impact

Research into urban development shows that public art contributes to economic growth and stronger communities.

A study by Chanuki Seresinhe found that areas with more artistic activity often experience:

  • Increased property values
  • Growth in local businesses
  • Higher community engagement

This is one of the reasons governments and councils invest heavily in mural programs.

See how this applies locally through our community murals & public art projects

Sydney street art by Graffiti artist Phibs

Real Example – Sydney’s Street Art Programs

A strong example is the Perfect Match Program Marrickville.

This initiative connects artists with property owners to create murals across Sydney’s Inner West.

The results include:

  • Increased tourism and foot traffic
  • Cultural activation of local areas
  • Ongoing economic benefits

View similar outcomes in our public art case studies

Murals Help Reduce Graffiti & Vandalism

One of the most overlooked benefits of murals is their ability to deter graffiti.

High-quality, respected artwork often:

  • Discourages tagging
  • Improves how the space is treated
  • Reduces ongoing maintenance costs

Learn more about this approach in our graffiti art & mural solutions

Real Example – Anti-Graffiti Mural in Sydney

We worked on a 100m wall project in Sutherland for Sydney Water that had ongoing vandalism issues.

By bringing together a team of graffiti artists to create a cohesive mural, the wall was transformed into a respected artwork.

 The result:

  • No ongoing tagging
  • Positive community feedback
  • Long-term cost savings

 Read the full case study:
Anti-Graffiti Mural Project in Sydney

street art mural Sydney in Sutherland

Long-Term Value for Businesses

Murals are more than decoration — they’re a long-term business asset.

They can:

  • Reinforce brand identity
  • Create shareable customer experiences
  • Improve the overall environment

See how this applies to commercial spaces: corporate mural projects

Case Study – Hospitality & Brand Experience

Murals are widely used in hospitality venues to create standout environments that customers want to photograph and share.

From restaurants to gyms and retail spaces, murals help turn blank walls into branded experiences.

View examples:
Corporate & Commercial Mural Projects

Case Study – School Murals & Student Engagement

Murals in schools go beyond aesthetics — they help create identity, pride, and engagement among students.

Explore:
School mural projects

Why More Clients Are Investing in Murals

There’s been a clear shift across industries.

Businesses want spaces that stand out.
Schools want environments that engage students.
Councils want projects that activate communities.

Murals bring all of this together — combining art, branding, and placemaking.

If you’re based locally, see how we deliver projects across Sydney mural projects

Working with Professional Mural Artists

At Blackbook Ink, we’ve delivered hundreds of murals across Australia for:

  • Schools
  • Councils
  • Commercial businesses
  • Developers

Each project is designed specifically for the space, audience, and purpose.

Learn more about our mural process and what’s involved from concept to completion.

Thinking About a Mural for Your Space?

If you’re considering a mural, the right approach can make a significant long-term impact.

Get a Quote Today

Or explore: