Religious Mural by Nick Parrendo

About Pgh Murals
Spreadsheet of Pittsburgh Public Art and blog archives
Map of Pittsburgh Public Art

This religious themed mural is almost hidden. There’re really only a few spots where you can get a view of it and those are from the West End Circle. There’s an old building tucked down next to the West End Bridge where Hunt Glass Studios lives. It is home to some incredibly beautiful stained glass art and restoration work. Breathtaking might just be an understatement for the artistry born in this little, unassuming brick building.

Nick Parrendo is the president of Hunt Glass Studios and the creative genius behind it. Up on the second floor is where Mr. Parrendo has his office. This is where he pours over old books and documents and creates some of the most amazing designs. It’s also the office that looks out across a roof top to the wall on the other side. Mr Parrendo decided that blank wall needed something and designed this mural to cover it.

The mural is based in scripture, including images from both the old and new testaments.

A star representing the Epiphany sits high on the left side above the angel Gabriel’s image.

Many people will recognize Jonah and the whale, the Holy Family, Moses, and Noah and the ark. Many will miss the four cups signifying Passover, or the coat of arms of Pope John Paul II. There are lots of great details that you’ll never see while driving past on West Carson St.

The mural wasn’t painted directly on the wall. It was done in panels that were screwed into place. As we mentioned above, this mural isn’t easy to get a good look at. Even standing on the West End Bridge you miss a lot of it. If you really want a nice look, we suggest you stop by the Hunt Glass Studios and ask. The people there are wonderful, welcoming, and proud to answer any questions. If you’re lucky you might be invited up to see the mural from the office or meet Mr Parrendo – who, at 85, still rides his bike by the way.