7 Things Every Art Lover Should Do in Johor Bahru

If you’re the type who can’t walk past a gallery without popping in, or you’ve always fancied trying your hand at an artcraft but never quite found the time, Johor Bahru can be your ideal weekend escape! When you think of JB, shopping malls and café-hopping might spring to mind first, but the city has an artsy side that’s well worth exploring. 

Here are 7 novel activities and spots for art lovers to visit in JB. As an arts-and-crafter myself, researching for this article has me seriously tempted to hop over the border and give them all a go!

Also read: A Guide to 7 Heart-Racing Adventures for a Thrill-Seeker in Johor Bahru (JB)

Get creative: New art workshops in JB

Get your hands dirty in the best way at these affordable, beginner-friendly art studios offering everything from pendulum painting to sand art.

Edible Toast Painting at Slow Day Café

Yes, this cafe is not only a spot for matcha fans but also for artists! Slow Day Café offers a quirky, feel-good experience where you paint directly on toast using colourful, edible ingredients. It’s equal parts therapeutic and Instagrammable, and surprisingly beginner-friendly. Once you’re done, you get to eat your masterpiece or just admire it with a latte. This is a lovely pick for families or anyone looking to do something cute and creative in a café setting.

Find them at: 2, Jalan Mutiara Emas 10/19, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru

Spinning Lab

Channel your inner scientist and artist all at once. Spinning Lab lets you create bold, abstract works using physics-based techniques like pendulum and spin art. We’ve all seen those videos of artists spinning paint cans over canvases to create abstract art. It’s now your turn to give it a shot! The studio supplies everything you need, and you’ll walk away with a statement piece you actually made yourself. It’s fun, accessible, and oddly satisfying, especially for those who love a bit of chaos in their creative process.

Find them at: 16A, Jalan Austin Heights 7/8, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru

Unidess Art & Design Workshop

Looking for something truly out of the ordinary? Unidess Art & Design Workshop brings a glowing twist to traditional painting with its blacklight art sessions. Using UV-reactive paint and special lighting, you’ll create vibrant, otherworldly pieces that shine. You get to watch your artwork almost literally come alive in neon hues as you paint in a darkened room! It’s an eye-catching and highly immersive experience, something you won’t find in a typical art class. This art form is insanely cool, and I know I’ll be booking a session as soon as possible!

Find them at: 66a, Jalan Gaya 1, Taman Gaya, 81800 Ulu Tiram, Johor Darul Ta’zim

Play At Loft

A breezy, welcoming studio that feels more like a friend’s living room than a classroom, Play At Loft is the go-to for relaxed, beginner-friendly workshops. Whether you’re flinging paint at a canvas or layering coloured sand into miniature masterpieces, the vibe is always fun and pressure-free. They offer a great variety of workshops and activities, including art jamming sessions, balloon splatter art and tote bag painting! This is a great place for first-timers, friend groups, or even couples looking to try something a little offbeat for date night.

Find them at: No 35-01, 7/3, Jalan, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru

Sands Art Gallere

This quiet studio is all about textures and focus. At Sands Art Gallere, you’ll work with fine coloured quartz sand to create textured, layered artworks that are both visually striking and tactile. Take part in their Quartz Sand Painting or Boutique Sculpture Art workshops to create something truly unique. Personally, I love the way this art form works with both textures and visuals, and am dying to check it out! It’s a rewarding, slow-paced option if you enjoy crafts that require patience.

Find them at: 7, Jalan Balau 1, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru

Also read: Best DIY Art Activities to Try in Johor Bahru (JB) for Singaporeans

JB’s unique art stops

Not feeling hands-on? These 2 unique spots are perfect for admiring talent and soaking up JB’s creative culture.

Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street

Instead of stepping foot into a gallery, let the city streets set the tone. This heritage area around Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is full of eye-catching murals that blend history, culture, and contemporary flair. From portraits of local legends to whimsical illustrations, it’s a colourful and walkable stretch that encourages you to slow down and take it all in. Best enjoyed on foot and with a camera at the ready! 

Find them at: Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 JB

Also read: 10 Free Things to Do in Johor Bahru (JB) for Singaporeans

Senso Art Gallery Café

Senso Art Gallery Café blends contemporary art with a calm, minimalist atmosphere. The space features rotating exhibitions by emerging and established Malaysian artists, offering everything from abstract canvases to intricate ink work. This cafe actually also holds various art workshops, ranging from jewellery making to pressed flower workshops. It’s a café, art sanctuary, and art studio rolled into one!

Find them at: 25 & 25a, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru in full colour

JB might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of art destinations, but that’s exactly why it’s such a delight to discover them there. The city offers plenty for art lovers keen to explore beyond the obvious.

So the next time you’re planning a JB trip, skip the outlet malls (just this time!) and immerse yourself in the creative side of the city. You’ll return with unique souvenirs and be full of inspiration to last you until your next getaway.