Public Art in Downtown Geneseo
The Geneseo Mural Project
Large-scale murals that celebrated our history, culture, and community identity
The Geneseo Mural Project placed mural installations around Geneseo that livened up our already active town, and gave residents and visitors a place to snap, share their adventures with us all. They were truly made for our great city.
The project brought together talented artists, dedicated sponsors, and passionate community members to create lasting works of public art that will be enjoyed for generations.
Thank you to our sponsors! A full list of businesses, organizations and individuals who supported the Geneseo Mural Project can be found below.
Historic Downtown Geneseo
Painted over the weekend of September 15 through 18, 2022, this was the inaugural mural of the Geneseo Mural Project. Led by Michael Clark of Albedo, Illinois—a well-known member of the Walldogs community—this piece offered a vibrant interpretation of Historic Downtown Geneseo. The mural greeted drivers and pedestrians as they experienced our downtown.
The Horse Fountain pictured in the mural still exists today and can be found behind the Geneseo Historical Museum at 205 S. State Street.
The Fabric of Geneseo
This colorful mural invited drivers and pedestrians to stop and take their picture holding the needle that helped piece our amazing community together throughout the years. Created with vision and flexibility by MuralScout, LLC, it celebrated the threads—both literal and figurative—that bound Geneseo's residents, businesses, and traditions into one cohesive story.
Bring On The Band
This mural paid tribute to the excellence of Geneseo marching bands and the performing arts. Starting with the founding of the Maple City Band in 1906, the piece depicted the Black Knights Drum & Bugle Corps who were based out of Geneseo, and the Geneseo High School Marching Band—also known as "The Sound of Geneseo." GHS Seniors who graduated in 2023 were featured marching in the right side of the mural, completing a visual timeline of marching and community band excellence spanning over 117 years.
Stop by to enjoy the visual timeline and take your photo with this vibrant piece of Geneseo history.
Harold E. Neumann — Aviation Pioneer
This mural paid tribute to local aviation pioneer Harold Neumann, a Geneseo native. Harold learned to fly during the mid-1920s in the Geneseo and Quad Cities area, before becoming a skilled aerobatic daredevil and pilot. He competed in several air races, winning multiple awards and the prestigious Air Race Pilot of the Year honor in 1935. He eventually put his flying skills to use as a commercial pilot for TWA. Following his retirement, Harold mentored several young pilots and was inducted into numerous Aviation Halls of Fame across the United States.
Harold Neumann is honored at the Geneseo Historical Society Museum with an exhibit display located in the "Campbell House" behind the main museum building. More information about Harold Neumann can be found at the Geneseo Historical Society.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This project was made possible by the generous support of local businesses, organizations, and individuals who believe in the power of public art.