Introducing the America250 Westerville Mural Project
Posted on by Michelle Ford
A Citywide Canvas of Untold Stories
The America250 Westerville Mural Project is a community-wide public art initiative designed to honor and reflect on the untold stories that have shaped Westerville—past and present. Through a series of thoughtfully curated murals, this project invites both residents and visitors to engage with the people, places, and moments that have helped define our community in meaningful and lasting ways.
A Citywide Public Art Experience
This summer, 12 vinyl murals will be installed throughout Westerville, each inspired by themes that connect local history, culture, and community. From environmental landscapes and transportation corridors to stories of leadership, creativity, and resilience, each mural will bring a unique narrative to life. Eight Ohio artists from diverse backgrounds and perspectives were commissioned for this project, each bringing their own creative voice and approach to interpreting these stories through public art. Together, these installations will create a citywide experience, encouraging exploration across Westerville and inviting visitors and residents to discover each location in their own way.
Themes That Tell the Story
Each mural within the America250 Westerville Mural Project is inspired by a distinct theme—highlighting a range of stories that reflect the people, places, and experiences that have shaped Westerville over time.
These themes include:
- Amalthea & the Central College Area
- The Muscogee Nation
- Festivals & Fairgrounds
- Games
- Transportation
- Westerville's Wetlands
- Agriculture
- Black War Veterans
- Westerville Good Citizens
- Westerville’s First Park
- Otterbein Women in the Arts
- Albert Exendine
Together, these themes help bring Westerville’s untold stories to light—through art that invites reflection, recognition, and discovery.
Rooted in Collaboration
The America250 Westerville Mural Project is a collaborative initiative led by six key community partners: The City of Westerville, Visit Westerville, the Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce, Otterbein University, the Westerville Public Library & Westerville History Museum, and the Westerville Historical Society. Each organization brings a unique perspective to the project, ensuring that the stories represented are meaningful, inclusive, and reflective of Westerville’s rich and evolving identity.
Powered by Local Innovation
The murals themselves are being produced locally at The Point at Otterbein University, within its Maker Space. The Point is a hub for creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning—bringing together students, faculty, and community partners to turn ideas into tangible experiences. By producing the vinyl murals in this space, the project not only supports local talent and resources, but also reflects the innovative spirit that continues to shape Westerville today.
A Summer Kickoff in Uptown
The project will officially launch during the June 26 Fourth Friday Festival, with a community activation taking place on Hanby Lawn in Uptown Westerville. Visitors can learn more about the murals, connect with the project, and be among the first to experience what’s ahead.
Explore Through the Digital Mural Trail
To enhance the experience, a digital mural trail will launch alongside the project—making it easy to explore each mural and uncover the stories behind them. Whether exploring by car, bike, or on foot, visitors can follow the trail across Westerville and engage more deeply with each installation through curated content and storytelling.
Made Possible Through Community Support
This project is made possible through funding support from the America250 Ohio Commission, the Ohio Arts Council, and The Westerville Fund. Additional support for the America250 Westerville Mural Project is supported by our valued community sponsors: The Marzetti Company, RWM Wealth Advisors, Reach Realty, Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt, Central Ohio Primary Care, and Meza Wine Shop.
What’s Next
In the weeks ahead, we’ll begin introducing the artists behind each mural, along with the themes and locations that will shape this citywide experience.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, the America250 Westerville Mural Project offers a new way to experience the community—one story at a time.
