Did you know there are more than eighty murals scattered across the city of Erie and surrounding areas? Learn more about Erie's history and community through these artistic works that can be seen throughout the city.

“Let the Children Sing” (pictured above), located at the Martin Luther King center at 312 Chestnut Street, depicts adults and children in motion against a backdrop of notes drawn from the namesake song, "Let the Children Sing," written by Erie native classical composer Harry T. Burleigh. The piece explores the history of Erie’s important figures in Erie’s African American culture and their influence in the development of Erie’s music scene.

The “Carla Hughes” mural (pictured left), located at 650 East Avenue, painted by Miami-based artist Mwanel Pierre-Louis honors the memory of Carla Hughes. Hughes was a well-known Erie educator, dancer, performer and board member at the Erie Playhouse who recently passed in May 2021. The mural honors this artist who meant so much to her students and fellow performers.

Next is “Rudy” (pictured left), a nine-story mural located at the Methodist towers 160 West 8^th Street. Artist Evoca1 who painted the mural observes human behaviors and social struggles to translate them into his artistic works. Evoca1 focuses on a person local to the community where he is painting. “Rudy” is no exception, depicting local Rudy Daniels, a resident of Methodist Towers.

“Flotsam”, which measures approximately 12, 000 square feet, is the largest piece of public art located in Erie on the Bicentennial Tower’s second level observation platform at Dobbins landing. According to traditional maritime definitions, flotsam refers to the wreckage of a ship and what debris may eventually wash ashore. Internationally renowned artist SatOne said the mural explores the definition of flotsam and this feeling of rejection by incorporating bright images of abstract shapes floating aimlessly over a vibrant blue background. SatOne challenges what will happen to the debris, telling the story of a treasure waiting on the sand to be reclaimed by those who are curious.

These are just four of the more than 80 murals in Erie waiting to be explored. Visiting these murals is a great way to discover and learn more about our Erie community. For a complete list of murals, maps, and more follow this link https:/ /www.visiterie.com/blog/murals-of-erie-county.