Entirely funded through local business donations, the progress of the city’s mural is coming along nicely and on track for completion in time for the nation’s biggest celebration this Independence Day.

A new mural in downtown Warren is coming along nicely, thanks to the effort, time and talent of artist Sara Aiello.

The painting began in late May and currently, a considerable amount of the mural is complete. After being able to keep an element of surprise to the project, now revealed are the prominent figures displaying the heritage of Warren, including General Joseph Warren and Chief Cornplanter.

Describing the mural as a collage of Warren’s history and Pennsylvania nature and wildlife, there are no hidden messages.

“I like to keep it history heavy,” said Aiello.

She has even included history information in her daily posts on Facebook, giving thanks to the Warren County Historical Society. She completed the section of the mural with General Joseph Warren on June 17 which, coincidentally, marks the same day 251 years ago when he was at the battle of Bunker Hill.

Aiello shared that extensive research goes into each of her mural projects in an effort for accuracy. This one is a collage of images chosen in a cohesive manner with Pennsylvania wildlife as a central theme. Featuring the state’s tree, animal, bird, fish and flower, Aiello beautifully tied the elements in with the native Chief Cornplanter and city namesake, General Joseph Warren. Several of the images symbolize the industries Warren has been known for over the years. The refinery is obvious on the mural while the St. Louis arch demonstrates the steel industry and a steamboat will be painted to represent the logging industry.

Completion of mural projects in Kane and in Aiello’s hometown of Titusville have taken place over the last few years. The city of Warren was drawn to Aiello as an artist because she aims to build community around the project.

“If it’s building community, it’s what it’s all about,” said Aiello.

While the process for every mural is slightly different, this one has been a new experience for Aiello, in that both the Kane and Titusville murals were designed and digitized with more shading and realism. While the artist enjoys working in realism the most, realism on the rough brick would not have translated as well. A rough sketch discussing the elements of the scene with its vintage style was the first step in presenting her ideas to the city. After getting the dimensions of the building, Aiello approached friend and graphic design artist Paul Haggerty, out of Pittsburgh, for the vintage modern style of painting with the colors, the blocking and the boldness, making for a specific and unique style which was best suited for the bricks of the building. After a few months of collaboration, it was brought to the city to be approved.

Additionally, Aiello said her husband has helped with the Warren mural.

“My husband Jody always helps assist me on getting the murals started in the first week, but he has been a part of this mural every day to help move the project along more quickly and since he is also an artist, I have total faith in him,” said Aiello.

All weather dependent, the couple puts in around 10 work hours daily together.

Diligent in finishing the work in time for the Fourth of July, Aiello also said that the support from the community has been an outpouring of positive encouragement. Although criticism is inevitable, Aiello has learned how to filter the negativity out, saying she is keeping it positive by ignoring and dodging any negativity, just focusing on what good art can do for a community.

Positioned at Warren’s roundabout, traffic sounds echo negative and positive sounds, but a polite beep is easily distinguishable from a road rage honk. As Aiello put it, “Feel free to signify support by giving a friendly “beep beep.”

For daily progress updates on the mural, follow the Sara Aiello Studio Facebook page.