Storm drain mural to be unveiled Saturday
The Rev. Tara L. Eastman, one of two artists to create storm drain murals in Soldiers and Sailors Park in Warren, is pictured.
Abigail Shick, one of two artists to create storm drain murals in Soldiers and Sailors Park in Warren, is pictured.
The Rev. Tara L. Eastman, one of two artists to create storm drain murals in Soldiers and Sailors Park in Warren, is pictured.
Abigail Shick, one of two artists to create storm drain murals in Soldiers and Sailors Park in Warren, is pictured.
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Murals on sidewalks between two storm drains at Soldiers and Sailors Park will be unveiled Saturday.
Both artists are natives of Warren County.
The Rev. Tara L. Eastman returned in 2024 to serve as pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren. Having served in ecumenical church ministry, music, social work, and community art/education for more than 30 years, her interest in art was cultivated from a childhood playing outdoors growing up in Russell. She uses various mediums that build human connection and hopeful communities: visual art, poetry, spiritual writing and music.
Abigail Shick has loved art all of her life and is always trying to learn new things, enjoying acrylic, digital, ceramics, crafts, and more. Shick said she is excited for the encouragement Warren is receiving with seeking artists for more projects.
"In this time of mass and harmful AI generation I believe it is important not only for our environment but also for the human race to seek real artists to make the world beautiful," Shick said. "I am honored to have been chosen to be a stepping stone in Warren’s flourishing artistic future.”
The murals will be revealed in recognition of the artists, and is being held in conjunction with Warren's annual Fall Festival. Representatives from the NWPA Penn State Extension Master Watershed will be present from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A special time to meet the artists will be from noon to 1 p.m.
The project came together with the NWPA Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards implemented the community art initiative to celebrate local artists while also promoting clean-water stewardship and community pride.
Inspired by similar storm drain mural projects taking place in communities across Pennsylvania and throughout the country, these semi-permanent murals help educate the public about an important connection that is easy to overlook: Storm drains carry rainwater directly to streams and rivers. What goes down a storm drain can ultimately make its way into local waterways. Through art and education, the hope is to encourage the community to think about what we can all do to protect the water we share.
Appreciation for the financial support of the project goes to Twig & Vine, Riverview Nutrition, United Refining Company, Arbor House, Eagles Club, Gaughn’s Drug Store, Diana McKissock, and Howe’s True Value.
Project partners and supporters include the Pennsylvania Sea Grant, the NWPA Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards, City of Warren, Warren County Chamber of Business & Industry, and Kimberly Mickelson-Slocum of Creekside Art Studios.
"This project would not have been possible without the enthusiasm, generosity, and cooperation of our community," said project coordinator Tessa Campbell.
Looking ahead, Campbell intends to expand the mural project throughout the county and is welcoming location recommendations from the public. Organizers hope to time the unveiling of the next installation with a local town's festival.
For more information or to share any suggestions, email warrenstormdrains@gmail.com