Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka

OUR MISSION IS to conserve and protect for permanent public exhibition the nationally recognized Maxo Vanka murals within St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church in Pittsburgh, enabling the immigrant artist’s “gift to America” to serve as an enduring catalyst for community engagement and education, inspire social and cultural dialogue, celebrate diversity, and forge connections through reflections on the extraordinary American experience.

Created to raise awareness and educate the public about the murals and their significance to Pittsburgh’s history, and their depiction of America’s immigrant experience, SPMMMV was incorporated in 1991 as an independent 501(c)(3) organization.

SPMMMV also manages the tour program, staffed by trained volunteer docents, during our regular Saturday hours and private tours by special request. We’re also responsible for the fundraising effort to facilitate immediate conservation and lighting of the murals.

Since 2009, SPMMMV has raised nearly $1.5M from generous individuals and institutions making it possible to conserve and light 12 of Maxo Vanka’s 25 stunning murals and related programming. Public interest, awareness and access to the Murals increases each year through the Society’s efforts and with the support of the community.