Local Mural Artist is Adding Color to Syracuse Local Mural Artist is Adding Color to Syracuse

Syracuse, N.Y. (NCC News) — Downtown Syracuse is decorated with murals of all kinds because of local mural artist Ally Walker‘s work.

Walker has painted over 300 murals since she became a professional artist at 16-years-old. In fact, the first one she ever painted is still intact today.

“The first one I ever did is actually still in a bathroom somewhere, and it’s been through like three different owners and they still haven’t changed it,” Walker said.

Adding color to Syracuse’s buildings is no small feat for the local mural artist. While she is also a graphic designer and book illustrator, Walker prefers painting on bigger scales.

“I like to paint big,” Walker said. “There is only so much detail you can get in a small canvas.” 

© Sydney Staples

Thanks to Walker, the Schiller Park Community Center is now getting a new look. She is partnering with National Grid and Summer Friday for the project to create an interactive mural experience. 

Walker specializes in turning a blank wall into art that people can engage with. People can not only see her murals, but can also become part of them by taking pictures “in” or next to them.

The impact her murals have on people is proven to her by people taking time out of their day to stop and look at them, even if just for a moment.

“If I can make you look twice at my artwork as you’re walking by or doing whatever your daily tasks are, and I’ve almost interrupted your conversation or train of thought, then I’ve done my job well.”

The Schiller Park Community Center mural is estimated to be finished on Aug. 29. You can find some of Walker’s past works in the photo gallery below.