Creative Spotlight | Sophia Belluccini & Adam Hartinger
Published on 14 March 2023
Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
We’re a mural-duo from Sydney who combine Realism Art with Calligraphy. Our walls feature hyper-realistic images surrounded by brush calligraphy painted in complex geometrical patterns. Our murals often contain hidden messages or quotes which relate to environmental sustainability, mental health, or the trials of the human condition.
Whereabouts do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?
Recently we’ve gotten a lot of inspiration from David Attenborough. His documentaries have prompted us to paint murals that feature animals and spread reminders about environmental sustainability and protecting biodiversity.
Are there any special processes, techniques or tools you use to make your creative work?
We use a combination of aerosol spray paint and acrylic brush paint. We also use a variety of home-made DIY tools to grid up large circles and other complex shapes. Mr Mural also uses an interesting method known as the ‘Doodle Grid’ to re-scale images on to walls of any size.
What is a creative project that you’ve worked on that you’re really proud of? Why?
Our mural for the ‘Walk The Walls’ festival last year. It’s on the rooftop of the Cronulla Central carpark and features a realistic portrait of David Attenborough and a quote on environmental sustainability from his latest documentary ‘A Life On Our Planet’.
What creative project are you working on at the moment?
Mr Mural has a project in the works where he’ll be painting a series of themed dragons (fire, ice, water, wind) and other mystical creatures around a primary school.
What’s your favourite part of working as an artist / creative?
Being able to work for ourselves; Being able to take someone’s idea for a wall and turn it into a reality; And the jobs where we get to paint large walls together.
What’s the most challenging part of working as an artist / creative?
Finding your worth and confidence with pricing. Too many people think murals are a ‘quick and easy’ thing, and don’t understand the level of effort and endless hours that go into them. A lot of people also want art for free, or for cheap, and this can get really frustrating at times.
Do you have any rituals or routines that help you to be more creative?
For us, music and podcasts are huge. They help us block out the outside would and enter the flow state where we paint and the hours just pass by seamlessly.
Do you have any top tips for emerging artists and creatives just starting out?
Quality over quantity. Always take your time and pour your heart and soul into your work. People will notice the extra mile you take. Also, take risks with your art practice and always experiment constantly. The ‘breakthrough’ moments often come from trying something different and pushing your usual boundaries or methods.
Who are some other local artists we should check out?
@muralisto – they’re a brother and sister duo that create some amazing work, we’re a huge fan of their super colourful ground murals.
Where can we find out more about your work and get in touch?
@orkaydia / www.orkaydia.xyz/
@mistarr_m / www.mrmural.com.au