FAQ’s about the Mural

Is there an email that comments and questions can be sent to? 

Send questions and comments to Lillian Richards, Director of Creative Engagement.  Her email is lillian@stmclt.org.

What will be done to the brick to prepare it for the mural?

The artist has asked that the wall be pressure washed prior to his arrival. Any volunteers?  This needs to be done in September.  Matt will be priming everything with a bonding primer. Any area painted will have this. It is a product that is designed to stick to anything, even glass. He used it on the Smithsonian mural.  (See the Smithsonian mural at thegoodofthehive.com.) He will paint the mural using Modern Masters Theme Paints and when done he will use Modern Masters Dead Flat Varnish to seal it.  To read more about these products go to: Theme Paint – Restaurant & Mural Paint | Modern Masters

Where will the mural be painted?

Our mural will be painted onto the wall facing the parking lot and Uptown Charlotte.  It might possibly wrap around some of the building facing 7th Street.  Our “calling card” will be on display for all who are driving, walking, and biking on 7th St. 

Are there costs associated with mural upkeep over the years? 

The mural will only get partial sun throughout the day.  It will need a quick power washing and another coat of varnish in about 15-20 years.  

.Will the parish get to see the completed design before deciding whether to contribute?

Pray about  being a part of our commitment to help the poor.  Discern the amount you would like to contribute.  The mural will be a constant reminder to everyone in our church community and the greater community of our responsibility to “be with” the poor.   

Muralist, Matt Willey, will begin creating the mural design now that the contract has been signed and the deposit paid.  Periodic updates and visuals will be shared with the congregation.

How much does the mural cost and where will we get the funds?

The mural costs $48,000.  This includes all the materials and the muralist’s time, talent, and living expenses.  The money will be gifted by the members of the parish.  The hope is that 100% of our congregation will participate in this endeavor, including children and teens. 

Funds exceeding the cost of the mural will support our commitment to the poor and the ministry that comes out of our on-going discernment process.  This will be announced at our Parish Weekend, September 12-13. 

What is the timeline of this project?

We actually have a physical timeline for the project!   It is currently posted in the Meeting Hall upstairs but may be moved to the Fellowship Hall at some point.  The timeline shows the overlay of the ministry discernment and mural steps.

Won’t the bee references confuse the public?

Good question!  The bees will pique curiosity and questions.  This will generate thought provoking conversations which will, in turn, generate connectedness.  The bees, hives, and honey reflect the livelihood of our St. Martin’s community and the abundance of our gifts: the “sweetness” we can carry forth into the world. Bees are a common reference in religious art often symbolizing diligence, good work, John the Baptist, and the Holy Spirit.

Why this particular image/icon and not another?

The icon of Christ the Good Shepherd is a well known image.  It is also an image which is core to our StM’s community.  The Good Shepherd stained glass window, above the high altar, welcomes us each time we enter the Nave. 

The parable of the Good Shepherd (John 10:3-16) is the foundation of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, our formation for children, ages 3-Grade 6.  The children in Atrium 1 hear and work with portions of the reading.  Why?  We simply want the children to fall in love with Jesus.  It continues to be pondered, with the addition of the remaining verses,  in Atrium 2 and 3.   

In John 10:3-26 we are reminded that Jesus is the good shepherd who protects us…a comforting reminder for all in a chaotic world.

Are we worried about vandalism?

Art is abundant on our campus, including but not limited to, the landscape thoughtfully planted and maintained, the design of the courtyard, the gurgling fountain, the colorful stained glass windows, the bells that ring on the hour, the music drifting out of the Nave, the winding path with hand chisled pavers in the memorial garden, the handcrafted ceramic stoup hanging on the inside of the Narthex door, the thoughtfully arranged flowers on Sunday mornings, and the soon to be mural. It is all public art, meant for everyone to experience.  It ignites our senses, connecting us to the world, other people, and our faith.  These are life giving connections.

We will not worry about vandalism.  The alternative is to put it away art or not to have any at all.  However, we must not “hide” our art (and who we are) to protect it.  We must share it!

How long will the painting process take?

The muralist, Matt Willey, is scheduled to begin the beginning of October, 2026.  The  painting will take approximately 4-6 weeks to complete. Anyone may come observe the process in the designated observation areas.  We may even plan “paint watch” gatherings!  Matt will also speak publicly about his story, process, and purpose at some point during his stay.  Upon completion, the mural will be blessed and we will have a celebration!!!

How was the artist selected?

Please read the answer to this question HERE. Might I add, aside from his immense talent and experience, selecting Matt Willey just felt like the quintessential “fit”.  Like us, this project is so much more to him than just a mural. He also has a tremendous amount of hope, confidence, and optimism which is infectious.