Giant Miner Silo Art Painted by SMUG in Kapunda

Rising above the historic township of Kapunda is a giant silo art portrait of a miner. One that stands as a powerful tribute to Kapunda’s copper mining heritage. Painted by world-renowned street artist Smug (Sam Bates), it was completed in October 2025.

Created over four and a half weeks, it stands at a massive 30-metre-high. The artwork has turned the silos into an artwork that is rooted in Kapunda’s identity. One that remembers the townships role as part of the state’s early “Copper Kingdom.”

A Miner at the Heart of Kapunda’s Story

At the centre of the mural is a copper miner deep underground. His face illuminated by the glow of a candle. In his hand, he holds a piece of copper ore. It’s a symbol of the discovery that changed Kapunda and South Australia forever.

Tunnels Underground

The underground tunnel opens out to reveal the open-cut mine. Rich red earth and rolling farmland beyond, it blends the past and present. It’s a scene that creates a sense of depth, drawing the viewer into the tunnel itself.

The Copper Kingdom

Copper was first discovered in Kapunda in 1842 by Francis Dutton and C.H. Bagot. In 1844 the mine opened and became Australia’s first successful commercial copper mine. For more than three decades, it played a vital role in South Australia’s growth. Helping to stabilise the young colony during its early years.

A Community Effort Years in the Making

For the Kapunda Mural Committee, the silo artwork represents the culmination of years of work. The group having already delivered more than a dozen murals across the town. Mainly painted by local artists, they have helped build Kapunda’s reputation as a destination for public art.

A Landmark for the Region

Even before completion, the artwork attracted visitors from across Australia. Fans of the growing silo art trail, traveling specifically just to watch the mural take shape. Just over an hours drive from Adelaide, locals believe that it’s a great addition to Kapunda. One that might encourage more visitors to explore the town’s cafés, historical trail and local businesses.

The Kapunda Silo Art mural was created by SMUG and completed in October 2025. It was supported by the Kapunda Mural Committee.

For more Inspiring City articles you will like, take a look at…

• SMUG silo art in Murtoa
• The Mini Silo Art of Woomelang in Australia
• North East Victoria Silo Art Murals
• Silo Art Trail of the Wimmera Mallee
• SMUG murals painted at Lameroo