Trainscape: Community and Industry by Anthony Purcell

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Creating this mural turned out to be educational for this artist. It was a learning experience regarding the public relations aspect of doing a public art piece. He discovered that there was a lot he didn't know. As a Sprout Fund mural, the local community had provided a committee to select and approve the artist and the design. Mr Purcell did a little research and found out that Swissvale had a history of industry revolving around steel and railroads. He designed the mural to show some of that history and when the committee approved his design so he set out to create the mural. The bold, colorful images were meant to be cheerful, positive influences in the neighborhood.

As he began painting, Anthony Purcell soon discovered that the committee did not mirror the local citizens in their opinions. As it turned out, that history of the railroad industry in town had ended on a very bitter note. The railroad pulled out in the early 80's and abandoned the town. Some of the citizens resented that and did not like seeing the train as the focal point in the new mural. There was also some dissension with the colors. The vibrant colors were loved by many, but not all. Some of the nearby businesses weren't happy with that look.

Mr Purcell said that Making good artwork is about making good choices, and the next time he does a mural like that he will be doing more research before he makes his design choices. He decided that he needs to know more than just the historic facts about the area. He said that it's necessary to understand the local perceptions before choosing the subject of the art, and he also realized that he needed to consider who had to literally live with the design. While most would only view it for a minute while driving or walking past, the homes and businesses across from it would see it constantly. He thinks that their preferences should be considered before the final design and colors are settled on.

We thought this mural was terrific and well worth going out to Swissvale to see. We hope it's grown on the people that weren't completely happy at the start, because it certainly does add a beautiful, cheerful spot in the neighborhood. I'd certainly enjoy having one like it in my neighborhood.