Out and About in RI: Public Art mural unveiled at Pawtucket’s Senior Center (photos)

On May 23, 2025, more than 75 people gathered for the unveiling of a vibrant new outdoor mural at the Leon Mathieu Senior Center, located at 450 Main Street in Pawtucket.

The 14-by-21-foot mural, now displayed on the center’s exterior wall, celebrates Pawtucket’s cultural diversity and promotes a message of positive aging. The project transforms a once-underused parcel of land into an inviting outdoor gathering space for seniors and the broader community.

More than art

The space features two ADA-compliant picnic tables, two benches, and three large planters, with landscaping designed to foster creativity, connection, and a sense of belonging, the area will serve as a lasting resource for socialization and community events.

As master of ceremonies, Director Mary Lou Moran, of the City’s Division of Senior Services, Leon Mathieu Senior Center, wished the attendees a “Happy Older American’s Month,” stating “what perfect timing for us to be holding an event like this where we are celebrating active, healthy living and recognizing the importance of the older adults living in our community and the impact they have.” Moran acknowledge these guest speakers, noting without their involvement an support the LMSC would not accomplished the creation of the tremendous outdoor venue that was officially christen that day.

Ballou Foundation grant

Supported by the Harriet Ballou Charitable Foundation and the City’s Arts and Cultural Commission, the initiative highlights the powerful impact of public art and thoughtful planning in enhancing quality of life for Pawtucket residents.  Nancy K. Saccoia, Board President of the Harriet Ballou Charitable Foundation, spoke at the ribbon cutting. Established in 2023, the Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the lives of seniors throughout Rhode Island. Following the closure of the Ballou Home for the Aged—a 43-bed nursing facility in Woonsocket that served the community since 1900—the Foundation was created to carry forward the home’s long-standing mission of supporting the well-being of older adults across the state. The Ballou Foundation displayed a large check for over $41,000 to the Leon Mathieu Senior Center, which funded the total project.

Pawtucket Commission on Arts and Culture

Moran introduced Miriam Plitt, Chair of the Pawtucket Commission on Arts and Culture to say a few words. “It’s my pleasure to introduce someone whose commitment to the arts in our city has left a lasting impact—Miriam Plitt, Chair of the Pawtucket Commission on Arts and Culture. Under her thoughtful leadership, the Commission plays a vital role in enriching the cultural landscape of Pawtucket.” Plitt noted the dedicated volunteer group works to support, promote, and integrate the arts into public spaces and community life, making sure that creativity and culture remain central to our city’s identity.” Moran noted that Miriam and the Commission were instrumental in vetting and selecting the talented artist who created the vibrant mural we’re celebrating today. Their guidance and vision helped ensure that this public art piece reflects the spirit and diversity of our community.”

Groundwork Rhode Island – landscaping

Groundwork Rhode Island’s generous in-kind donation of landscaping services helped create a vibrant and welcoming setting at the mural site, enhancing the overall impact of this public art installation. Amelia Rose, Executive Director of Groundwork Rhode Island spoke at the event and noted that the organization not only provides high-quality landscaping services, but also trains adults for green jobs—empowering individuals and strengthening urban communities across our state.

The Artist – Greg Pennisten

Pennisten was chosen as the artist – known professionally as “Greg Was Here,” is a Pawtucket-based muralist, illustrator, and sign painter. A graduate of Rhode Island College, he is the founder of Providence Painted Signs and is well known for his bold, community-centered public art. Greg’s work can be seen across Rhode Island and Massachusetts, including murals in downtown Pawtucket, tributes to community leaders like Morris Nathanson, and health-focused art at Project Weber/RENEW.

Whether collaborating with The Avenue Concept, Beyond Walls, or working independently, Greg brings stories to life through color and imagery that reflect our local heritage and shared values.

Other speakers at this ribbon cutting included: Pawtucket’s Mayor Grebien, Congressman Gabe Amo, Meghan Connelly, Deputy Director of the RI Office of Healthy Aging, and Jennifer Kilsey Pawtucket Cultural Affairs Program Coordinator.

Finally, Moran acknowledge the efforts of the Mayor and his office as well as the Pawtucket Commission on Arts & Culture, Pawtucket Departments of Public Works, Planning and Redevelopment, Zoning, and Fire Department, the staff of the Leon Mathieu Senior Center and its Pawtucket Senior Citizens Council, and Master Gardener Annette Alve, for bringing this project to fruition.   

Photos from the event!

Photos courtesy: Herb Weiss

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Out and About in RI is a feature of events and happenings with local folk in attendance. If you have an event, or are at an event and would like to submit photos along with a line or two about the event, please send to: news@RINewsToday.com