Lits Brothers building mural, Philadelphia

I was commissioned by Mark Merlini, a partner at Brickstone and a lifelong Philadelphian, to create a mural for the historic Lit Brothers building — a full block of Victorian architecture and a cultural icon in Center City. Sitting above a busy SEPTA and PATCO interchange, the site called for a 100-foot mural that could speak to the daily flow of people moving through the concourse.

Though I knew Philadelphia’s importance in American history, I hadn’t really explored it on foot. So I did — walking over 25 miles with a sketchbook, wandering without a plan, and gathering stories and memories from locals along the way. The mural is designed to unfold in layers, revealing historical figures, everyday scenes, and shared moments over time.

Painting in such a public space was a joy, fueled by conversations and encouragement from passersby, with invaluable support from the teams at SEPTA and PATCO. I hope the finished work reflects Mark’s vision and love for the city — its grit, humor, and heart — and the generosity with which it welcomed me.