A city's free, public art can be a bold voice as to who the city is, what it stands for, and who the city admires. It can be educational, serious, or lighthearted, but it is always inspirational. It comes in many forms and styles. Pittsburgh has SO MUCH beautiful public art around the city. It's impossible to name them all, but below are some of my personal favorites.
Two Andy's
Tom Mosser and Sarah Zeffiro created this incredibly large and colorful mural as a part of the Sprout Fund's Public Art Program that created 55 murals in the city from 2003 to 2010. It depicts two famous Pittsburghers, Andrew Carnegie and Andy Warhol. I love how playful it is while still paying homage to our two beloved Andy's. Located at the end of Strawberry Way downtown.
source: pittsburghartplaces.org
Mac Miller
Located in the North Side, this mural by Jeremy Raymer commemorates the release of Mac Miller's posthumous album "Circles." Mac Miller was from Point Breeze and is extremely beloved by his Pittsburgh family, friends and fans.
source: thenorthsidechronicle.com
Home Alone
Another fan favorite by Jeremy Raymer is the Home Alone mural in Lawrenceville. It appeared during the holiday season last year and is a big, bold and lighthearted piece of art for everyone to enjoy.
source: pittsburghmagazine.com
Liberation Wall
The largest mural in Pittsburgh, and certainly one of the most important is a 3 year project by Kyle Holbrook. Adorning the Community Empowerment Association on Kelly St. in Homewood, this mural highlights just some of the many influential African Americans who broke barriers and inspired so many. The most recent additions were George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breona Taylor. Holbrook said he wants to add images "that will talk about the future of African Americans and solutions to systemic racism.” Holbrook has created over 200 beautiful pieces of public art in Pittsburgh. His works are collaborative, educational and inspiring.
source: nextpittsburgh.com
Lion
The lion mural by Baron Batch is located in the Strip District and one that I drive past often. I personally love this mural's nod to The Lion King and all of Batch's art pieces because of the magical quality to them. They are so colorful and joyful.
Oakley Street Mosaic Steps
I discovered something magical while completed the South Side Step Trek a few years ago. Laura Jean McLaughlin guided community members in creating mosaic art on some of the steep steps in the South Side Slopes. The steps glisten and amuse, and they add so much beauty to the area.
source: southsideslopes.org
Cities are recognized and remembered by their murals and public art. They tell an important story about who the city is and what it stands for, and Pittsburgh is no exception.