Creative Happening at Vanka Murals: Art, Poetry, and Community in Pittsburgh

Read the full experience

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Millvale, just north of downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the Vanka Murals stand as stirring monuments to social justice, labor history, and immigrant experience. Created by Maxo Vanka in the 1930s and 40s, these murals decorate the walls of St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church, covering over 5,000 square feet in powerful imagery. The "Creative Happening: These Walls Can Talk" event offers visitors an immersive way to experience these iconic works through the intersection of visual art, poetry, and community engagement. Held within the church hall at 24 Maryland Avenue, this event brings together Carlow University's Madwomen in the Attic—a collective of contemporary women poets—with the murals’ rich legacy. It features a public poetry reading centered on themes inspired by the murals themselves, such as justice, motherhood, labor, and immigration. This artistic dialogue gives new voice and perspective to the centuries-old stories and struggles woven into the murals, creating a dynamic conversation between past and present. While the poetry readings unfold upstairs, the ground-level church hall transforms into an interactive creative space for all ages. Vanka Educators lead hands-on art activities designed to engage children and adults alike — a perfect opportunity for families and creatives to connect with the murals' themes through their own creations. It’s a rare chance to experience the murals not just visually, but as catalysts for personal expression and community connection. What makes this event particularly special in Pittsburgh's cultural landscape is the collaboration with the Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka and the Anthropology of Motherhood project. These partnerships highlight the murals’ enduring relevance and the continuing effort to educate and inspire through art. The event also honors Fran Flaherty, a commissioned artist for the Gift to America 2.0 program, whose work helped launch this collaboration and enriches the experience. Millvale offers an authentic, accessible setting to explore the city’s immigrant heritage and artistic innovation, just minutes from Pittsburgh’s urban core. For visitors seeking a creative and contemplative outdoor-adjacent adventure, this event combines art appreciation with vibrant community spirit in a museum-within-a-church experience unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re visiting Pittsburgh’s famed cultural sites or looking for a deeply meaningful activity beyond traditional sightseeing, "These Walls Can Talk" invites you to witness how the past and present converse through art and live performance amid one of the region’s most poignant public murals.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

No physical exertion required; suitable for all ages and abilities.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Vanka Murals event wheelchair accessible?

The church hall is not wheelchair accessible and includes a staircase with seven steps; visitors with mobility concerns should consider this before attending.

Are children allowed at this event?

Yes, all ages are welcome. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult during art activities.

Do I need to register in advance?

Advance booking information is available through the referral link; early registration is recommended due to limited seating.

Is the event indoor or outdoor?

The event takes place indoors within the church hall and the church itself for the poetry reading.

Are there restrooms on site?

Yes, the venue provides restroom facilities within the church building.

Is photography allowed during the event?

Photography is generally allowed, but attendees should avoid disrupting the poetry reading.

Local insights

Wildlife

Common urban birds like peregrine falcons nesting on nearby bridges
Seasonal sightings of river otters along the Allegheny River

History

Maxo Vanka completed the murals between 1937 and 1941, depicting struggles faced by Croatians in the U.S. during the early 20th century.

Conservation

Efforts by the Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals include careful restoration and community education to maintain the historical integrity of these artworks.

About Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka

The Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka is a Pittsburgh-based organization focused on protecting and promoting the murals painted by Maxo Vanka at St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church. The Society curates public programs that invite residents and visitors to engage with the murals’ history, artistic significance, and ongoing conservation work. Program offerings include the Vanka Murals Tour, a guided walkthrough of the church murals that highlights the stories behind the 1930s paintings and their connection to the immigrant and working-class experience. Sketching Sessions pair local artists with participants for indoor and outdoor drawing exercises inspired by Vanka’s views of Pittsburgh and the Cathedral of Learning. Creative events such as "These Walls Can Talk" blend public poetry readings, family-friendly art activities, and community conversation centered on themes found in the murals. Tours and programs emphasize education, accessibility, and stewardship, providing a structured way to experience the Vanka Collection while learning about preservation practices. The Society coordinates with volunteer guides and local artists to deliver informed, respectful visits that honor the site’s cultural context. Visitors can expect curated experiences that balance interpretation, hands-on activity, and opportunities to observe conservation efforts. The Society’s public programs create meaningful cultural access to Maxo Vanka’s murals, connecting art history, community memory, and contemporary creative practice for audiences in Pittsburgh and beyond. Programs are suitable for a range of ages and interests; scheduling varies seasonally — check local listings or the Society’s program information for current dates and details, and accessibility accommodations are described online.

Base locationPittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Tours offered4+

Adventure tips

Arrive earlyDoors open at 1:45pm; arriving early ensures you find seating for the poetry reading and time to explore the interactive art area.

Bring a notebookPen and paper come in handy if you want to jot down poetry inspiration or reflections during the reading.

Family friendly spaceKids under 5 must be accompanied by an adult during art activities in the church hall.

Wear comfortable shoesThe church hall is not wheelchair accessible and includes stairs, so dress for easy movement.

Recommended gear

Notebook and pen: Capture your thoughts and creative ideas during the poetry reading and art sessions.
Comfortable walking shoes: The venue involves some stairs and walking around the church hall.
Light jacket or sweater: The historic church building can be cool inside during autumn months.
Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while participating in the afternoon event.