Local Artist: Happy Decay

Inside Happy Decay’s creative practices and mission to bring colour, joy and meaning to public spaces right across Sydney.

By Gerii Pleitez

Happy Decay’s work transforms everyday spaces into places of imagination and connection. Known for creating playful, immersive murals that invite viewers to slow down and look closer. 

Their practice is driven by curiosity, humour and a deep respect for community.

From large-scale public artworks in local neighbourhoods to collaborations with global brands, Happy Decay's work celebrates the power of art to shift they way people experience the spaces around them. In this interview, we chat to Happy Decay about their creative journey, community engagement and the ideas behind their recent Mosman mural project.

What inspired your Mosman community piece? How are you connected/involved with the local community currently?

I was inspired by the natural surroundings of Mosman, particularly the trees and landscape, as well as the vibrancy and warmth of the local community. The stairwell itself was originally very dull, and I felt it was important to transform the journey through the space into something positive and uplifting. The work is designed to enhance the experience of moving through the stairwell and create a sense of joy and curiosity.

The mural artworks are intended to connect with everyone, from kids to grandparents, sparking imagination across all ages. They also function as a pathfinding tool, helping visitors identify which floor they are on through distinct imagery and mural features.

Whenever I paint on site, I make a point of chatting with locals. If the artwork allows, I sometimes incorporate snippets of people’s stories into the work. For example, you will find a whale included as a direct request from someone in the community.

How did your passion for art first develop?

My earliest memory of being drawn to art goes back to primary school. We were asked to create an artwork based on a story our teacher had read, and I remember loving the freedom of using imagination rather than having to be exact, like in maths. That sense of creating something unexpected has stayed with me and continues to flow through my work today.

Can you tell us about your artistic journey over the years?

After finishing Year 12, I took what was meant to be a year off, which turned into two years of travelling. I always had a sketchbook with me, and while most of my friends had gone to university, I was constantly drawing. A friend eventually suggested I look into art school.

During my travels, I was exposed to a lot of street art and the culture around it. I was particularly drawn to work that made public spaces more interesting and engaging for people. At art school, I refined my practice while still using imagination as the driving force behind my imagery. I experimented across photography, letterpress, etching and drawing.

After graduating, I struggled to make a living from my art. It wasn’t until years later, after learning graphic design, that I began to understand the broader systems involved in sustaining a full-time art practice. There are definitely a few key elements that need to be in place to support and promote your work. These days, I am fortunate that through persistence and consistent work, clients and brands now approach me directly.

What inspires you, and how has that inspiration evolved over time?

I have always been interested in creating artwork that is quirky and playful. Over time, that focus has evolved into making more immersive public artworks and murals. I am especially drawn to transforming neglected or mundane spaces into something enjoyable and uplifting, creating work that invites viewers to engage their imagination. That intention has grown significantly from my early days of practice.

Are there any career highlights you would like to share?

It might sound funny, but bringing new life to the Mosman car park genuinely feels like a highlight. At the same time, working with global brands such as Prada, Porsche and Meta has been an incredible experience.

After finishing art school, I was invited to spend three months in New York creating a limited-edition artist book using letterpress and etching, which was a major milestone. Working with schools is another highlight. Contributing to environments that become more inviting and inspiring for students and staff is incredibly rewarding.

Do you have any upcoming projects, events or exhibitions?

This year is shaping up to be a big one. A major project involves creating over 20 wall murals for a new health facility for young people. I am also collaborating with a UK brand that will launch later in the year, focusing on my illustration work.

Alongside client projects, I am developing a few personal side projects, including a joint exhibition in Canberra and releasing my artwork across a series of different products.