Kapunda’s silo art was completed on 20th October 2025 and it looks absolutely stunning! The silos were painted by internationally renowned Australian artist Sam “Smug” Bates and produced by Australia’s leading public art agency Juddy Roller.
The mural honours Kapunda’s history as Australia’s first successful mining town, which played a vital role in sustaining South Australia’s economy in the mid to late 1800s. The mural features a Cornish copper miner working underground holding a piece of copper ore as he looks out towards the town. The mining tunnel scene is illuminated by candlelight which reveals the incredible detail of the miner and rock formations. The opening of the mine tunnel shines through the vibrant scenery of an open cut mine and agricultural landscape in the distance.
This is Smug’s ninth silo painting and his most ambitious having completely covered both the southern side and front face of the silos in incredible detail. “Normally I would leave big areas of flat colour…but then it seems I’ve done detail everywhere,” Smug laughed. “I think it’ll probably be my best silo but I keep trying to raise that benchmark for each one that I do.” Smug took only four and half weeks to complete the mural, despite delays caused by severe winds and even a swarm of bees that made a hive in the boom lift!
The Kapunda Silo Art Project was initiated by the Kapunda Mural Town Committee, who have produced 14 murals since 2016 and have been successful in increasing tourism and winning a couple of national awards. Community interest was overwhelmingly in favour of extending Kapunda’s identity as a mural town by having a mural painted on the silos. Smug was chosen as the artist because of his incredible mural skills and experience in painting silos in South Australia. The Kapunda Mural Town Committee has been working closely with Smug and creative producer Juddy Roller for 12 months to bring to the project to reality.
“Smug is setting the national benchmark for what’s possible in large-scale muralism,” said Shaun Hossack, Creative Director of Juddy Roller. “His unique approach to what he calls stylised realism blends technical mastery with deep emotional connection. Every piece captures the people, the place, and the pride of regional Australia. It’s no wonder Smug is one of the most sought-after muralists in the world.”
Light Regional Council were supportive of the project and provided funding assistance. Mayor Bill Close couldn’t be happier and said “Congratulations to all involved. A stunning work of art.” The South Australian Government also provided funding thanks to state member for Light, Tony Piccolo MP who saw the potential in the project to drive economic growth by attracting visitors to Kapunda and the surrounding region.
Of course the project would not have been possible without the support of the local community which has been tremendous. The huge community fundraising goal of $50,000 was achieved through the generosity of local businesses and members of the community donating through GoFundMe. Further fundraising is necessary to provide enhancements to the silo art project such as lighting and interpretive lighting. Donations can be made here: https://gofund.me/f63b818e
Community consultation also played a vital role in shaping the themes of the artwork. Residents turned out in force to share ideas and stories, ensuring the final design would reflect the heart and heritage of Kapunda. The result is a mural that honours the town’s past while looking boldly to its future.
Kapunda Mural Town Committee member and project manager Danny Menzel said, “Smug’s painting process had become something of a community event with people coming out every day to see the progress and take pictures. It’s still quite surreal that it’s actually done, it was just a white silo four weeks ago…it’s quite an unbelievable achievement,” he said. “I think it’s going to be a landmark for years to come.”
Come see it for yourself and experience the magic!
For further information contact Kapunda Mural Town Committee member and project manager; Danny Menzel0438 150 774
Donations: https://gofund.me/f63b818e
Photography by Ali Roberts
