Ideas for Ocean Wall Murals

Realism in Art

• Enlarging a photograph of an ocean wave by using a commercial scanner and copier is an ideal way to get a realistic image. By enlarging on grid paper, you can easily recreate the image on a wall, drawing what is seen in each grid square. Paint can be used to fill in your image. The use of a projector is another way to enlarge an image to be traced on a wall.

Tile

• Tiling a wall in shades of blue will make a stunning abstract ocean wave. The design should be sketched out to determine appropriate placements. A realistic color palette for an ocean wave might be shades of blue, green, gray and yellow.

Freeform

• An ocean wave is an easy and comfortable shape to recreate, as it is basically a curl. By drawing an abstract wave and duplicating it in different colors, you can make create a dramatic visual. Adding an underwater level—the ocean floor—will add detail and interest. The inclusion of shells, coral, fish, sea creatures or maybe a treasure chest or shipwreck will make the mural more visually interesting.

Stamps

• Ink applied to a wall with the use of stamps will have an unusual effect. Custom stamps can be made in any size. By inking the stamp one time, you are likely to get a more opaque result; however, the more times the stamp is applied without re-inking, the more transparent the image becomes. Repetitive stamping, done after each layer dries, will add depth and maximize colors. This process may be time consuming due to the necessary multiple ink applications.

Embellishments

• The addition of embellishments to a painted or inked mural will have a striking result. Foil papers come in silver, gold, bronze and copper and will add interest. Beads, tiles, glitter paint or neon colors can also be added for a dramatic look. A professional sealant should be applied to secure the added embellishments.

Wall Stickers

• Stickers can be made with professional adhesives. Wave patterns can be cut out of the rolls using a craft utility knife. Again, a color palette of blues, grays and greens will pay tribute to the ocean.