Mural Art Research: A Bibliometric Overview

Abstract

This study explores the scholarly trajectory of mural research within the domains of public art, heritage, and urban studies, emphasizing its role in shaping identity, promoting community engagement, and contributing to sustainable regeneration. A bibliometric review was conducted on 345 Scopus-indexed publications spanning the years 1976 to 2025, with visualization techniques employed to examine publication output, collaboration networks, institutional contributions, and thematic structures. The results reveal a steady expansion of mural scholarship, with a significant rise in research activity after 2018. Leading contributions are concentrated in countries such as China, the United States, and the United Kingdom, reflecting diverse academic traditions and cultural contexts. Keyword mapping identifies eight major clusters, encompassing themes of heritage conservation, tourism development, education, social engagement, and digital innovation, thereby illustrating the broadening scope of mural studies in both traditional and contemporary discourse. Despite this growth, international collaboration remains relatively limited, highlighting the need for stronger interdisciplinary and cross-regional partnerships. By presenting the first large-scale mapping of mural scholarship, this study provides an overview of its historical development, current intellectual landscape, and potential directions for advancing sustainable cultural and urban initiatives. The findings establish a foundation for positioning mural research as a dynamic and impactful area of academic inquiry.