Discover the striking murals of Maxo Vanka through guided sketching workshops that blend art, history, and scenic inspiration. Join talented local artists for a hands-on experience suitable for all levels in Pittsburgh.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical activity required, suitable for most fitness levels
Wildlife
History
The Vanka murals were painted between 1937 and 1941 and depict both religious and social themes inspired by European mural traditions.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve these murals include limited touch access and regular maintenance to keep the artwork vibrant for future generations.
Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka
Discover the striking murals of Maxo Vanka through guided sketching workshops that blend art, history, and scenic inspiration. Join talented local artists for a hands-on experience suitable for all levels in Pittsburgh.
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.
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Tours Offered
3 unique experiences
Guided tours, workshops, community events
Community Focus
Local artists & volunteers
Partnerships with local artists
Preservation Focus
Murals conservation
Highlights conservation efforts
Reserve a spot for a Vanka Murals Tour, Sketching Session, or the Creative Happening: These Walls Can Talk in Pittsburgh.
Bring your sketching supplies
Ensure you have your favorite pens, pencils, or sketchbooks for the outdoor and indoor sessions.
Dress for the weather
Wear comfortable clothing and layers, especially if planning to sketch outdoors.
Arrive early
Give yourself plenty of time to settle in and absorb the setting before sketching begins.
Respect the artwork
Help preserve the murals by following workshop guidelines and not touching the art.
Sketching supplies
Bring your preferred pencils, pens, and sketchbooks to capture the murals' details.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers for outdoor sketching, especially during spring and fall.
Water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized through the workshop.
Comfortable shoes
Wear suitable footwear for outdoor and indoor activities.