About this Project
The Waterfront Mall, Homestead, PA
Project Overview
Project Lead: Shane Pilster
Collaborating Artist: Max Gonzales
Client: M&J Wilkow
Date: August 2023
Medium: Spray paint
Dimensions: 156’ x 20’
Steel Valley: Past to Present is a large-scale public mural celebrating Homestead’s industrial roots and evolving cultural identity. Designed as a visual landmark for The Waterfront Mall, the mural blends steel history, music, sports, commerce, and everyday community life into a single narrative that reflects both the past and present of the Steel Valley.
Challenge and Approach
The Waterfront Mall wanted a bold, welcoming mural that honored Homestead’s history while connecting with locals and visitors alike. I led the project from concept through completion, working closely with the mall’s Marketing Director and community voices to shape a design that felt authentic and inclusive.
The mural features local Homestead legends, industrial imagery, schools, live events, a dog park, and layered community Easter eggs. Throughout the process, I managed contracts, insurance, safety planning, scheduling, and on-site coordination with the maintenance team, while keeping stakeholders informed and adapting the design in real time based on feedback.
Collaboration
Max Gonzales collaborated on the execution of the mural, painting approximately half of the wall and imagery, surface prep, clear-coating, and participating in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Our long-standing working relationship and shared history in the Homestead area supported an efficient and cohesive production at this scale.
Impact
The mural has become a visual anchor and point of pride for the community, increasing foot traffic and engagement at The Waterfront. The project concluded with a public ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by the mayor, community members, and representatives connected to local icons such as Josh Gibson, Betty Davis, and Bill Campbell. The mural continues to serve as a shared symbol of Homestead’s past, present, and future.
My Various Roles
- Project lead and coordinator
- Primary client and stakeholder liaison
- Final concept and design creation
- Contracts, negotiations, and project management
- On-site coordination and process documentation
- Executing the design and communicating on-site changes
