Across the City of Reading, walls once left blank are now bursting with color, story, and purpose. What began as isolated mural projects has evolved into a full-fledged public art movement — one driven by collaboration, cultural expression, and community healing. From celebrating recovery and mental health to honoring tradition and even reaching across the Atlantic, Reading’s murals reflect the heartbeat of a city shaping its identity through creativity.
A Beacon on Penn Street: Community and Legacy
At the heart of downtown, the west façade of DeCarlo’s Bar & Grill at 240 Penn Street now features a striking mural created by local artist Treasure Lopes. Drawing inspiration from the expressive style of Ernie Barnes, Lopes designed the mural to honor DeCarlo’s patrons — a tribute to both the regulars and the broader Reading community. Over 1,000 residents helped bring the piece to life, including students from Reading and Antietam schools, Albright College, and even senior community groups. The project, coordinated by Mike Miller, exemplifies the kind of intergenerational collaboration and pride that defines Reading’s public art identity.
Murals that Heal: SOS Berks and the Journey Through Recovery
Reading’s public art is also deeply tied to its efforts to reduce stigma and promote healing. In April 2024, SOS Berks dedicated a mural titled “The Journey” at 11th and Richmond Streets. Designed by artist Marian Njai and digital designer Gregory Didyoung, the mural shares the recovery story of Yvonne Stroman, whose life experiences and quotes are woven throughout the artwork using bicycle-themed stencils.
A year earlier, the coalition unveiled “Mi Recuperación, Mi Familia” at 9th and Oley Streets — the first in a series of recovery-themed murals. This one centered on Jose Lugo’s journey, with artist Leslie Ramos transforming his story into a 60-panel design painted by over 1,000 volunteers. Both murals, supported by the Council on Chemical Abuse and coordinated by Berks Community Murals, communicate messages of hope, resilience, and the human side of addiction.
Hope Blossoms: Mental Health Awareness in Living Color
At the Mosaic House Clubhouse, the Hope Blossoms mural stands as a symbol of support for those facing mental health challenges. Originally dedicated in October 2021 by the Berks County Suicide Prevention Task Force, the mural was rededicated in 2023 with the addition of overnight lighting to enhance its visibility and impact. Designed by Gregory Didyoung and painted by task force members and local volunteers, the mural acknowledges both those experiencing mental health struggles and the professionals who support them.
A recent partnership with Masterpiece AR added an augmented reality layer — allowing viewers to scan a QR code and watch the mural come to life with movement and messaging. For mural coordinator Mike Miller, the illuminated mural now stands as an enduring beacon of hope for all who encounter it, whether in person or virtually.
A Taste of Tradition: The Berks Pretzel Collection
Public art in Reading isn’t just about healing — it’s also about heritage. In 2019, Reading was invited to participate in a street art festival in Reutlingen, Germany, its sister city. Local artists painted more than 80 small pretzel murals on fabric, which were displayed in Germany during the festival. The project returned to Reading with a community exhibit of over 100 pretzel paintings now on display at 645 Cherry Street. The effort was spearheaded by Mike Miller with the help of the Berks Arts Council and artists like Josh Brightbill, reinforcing Reading’s global ties through artistic exchange.
On the Horizon: More Murals, More Voices
The public art initiative continues to grow — and its latest project is already making an impact. The Berks Arts Council recently completed a citywide bus shelter mural series titled “Art for Hope, Healing and Community Unity in the Public Realm.” Eight local artists were selected to design original works now displayed on shelters across Reading, embedding public art into the everyday commute and continuing the city’s transformation into a living gallery.
More Than Paint on a Wall
Reading’s mural movement is not a trend. It’s a philosophy — one that believes public spaces should reflect public voices. Through partnerships with schools, colleges, nonprofit agencies, and everyday residents, these murals go far beyond decoration. They are tools for healing, conversation, cultural celebration, and community pride.
Whether through the lens of recovery, heritage, or hope, Reading’s walls now speak — and what they’re saying is something every resident can be proud of.
