Indonesian artists make wall murals to help clamp down a surging tide of coronavirus infections

From scythe-wielding monsters to a globe fending off coronavirus with an umbrella, a group of Indonesian artists has turned to wall murals to help stem a growing number of infections.

The Jakarta-area artists saw orders for their work dry up as the pandemic hit and decided to use that extra time to paint the walls of their neighbourhoods and educate the public about the deadly disease.

 Indonesian artists have turned to wall murals to help clamp down on a surging tide of infections.

"This unnecessary panic moved me to do these murals. I wanted to rebuild our spirit so we've got the positive energy back to fight against coronavirus," said artist Sulis Listanto.

"It's easier to educate people through pictures."

So Listanto painted a globe being attacked by the virus with the words "Save the world".

 Mural artist Mujiono poses with his artwork.

Another had a darker tone featuring a cat-like monster carrying a scythe with the words "Covid-19".

Fellow mural artist Yahya -- who like many Indonesians goes by one name -- was inspired to paint a colourful montage advising people to stay at home.

"We used to paint murals at schools or cafes, but we don't have any jobs now," he said.

 Mural artists Mastantio (L) and Yahya (R) pose with their artwork. 

"Through this work we're urging people to stay at home and to appreciate health workers."

"We tried to make the murals colourful and bright so they can radiate positive energy and keep people optimistic in this difficult time," he said.

READ MORE

Chiles Valparaisoan open air graffiti and mural art gallery

Emirati's mural highlights safety steps over coronavirus

Banksy's ash mural moved from garage to gallery in Welsh town

As of Tuesday, 459 people had died of the virus with more than 4,800 confirmed cases, according to Indonesia's government.