Cuyahoga Valley Art Center Selects Cleveland-Based Artist Derek Brennan for Landmark Mural Project
Cuyahoga Falls, OH – (03/11/2025) – The Cuyahoga Valley Art Center (CVAC), 2131 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, is thrilled to announce that Derek Brennan has been selected as the lead artist for the "Pantone of the Cuyahoga River" mural project. A Cleveland-based muralist with nearly 50 public works to his name, Brennan will transform the east-facing wall of CVAC into a large-scale mural celebrating the colors, textures, and natural beauty of the Cuyahoga River.
At this stage, Brennan is collaborating with students from Cuyahoga Falls High School’s Public Art class, offering them an inside look into his process. He will share insights into his career, what goes into creating a large-scale mural, and the specific steps he will take in bringing this project to life. As part of this educational engagement, Brennan and the students will take a walking trip along the river for inspiration, which will influence the final design.
"I'm so excited to create this mural for the Cuyahoga Valley Art Center!" said Brennan. "The Cuyahoga River has such a rich history and natural beauty, and I can't wait to bring its colors, textures, and energy to life. It’s an honor to celebrate the river’s significance to the region through my art, and I’m looking forward to sharing this piece with the community!"
Meet the Artist – Community Event on March 28
CVAC invites the public to meet Derek Brennan at its upcoming Figurative Exhibition Artist Reception on March 28, from 5:30-7:00 PM at CVAC. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about his work, ask questions about the mural project, and engage with the creative vision behind this exciting public art initiative.
The "Pantone of the Cuyahoga River" mural is made possible through the generous support of ArtsNow and their ArtsForward grant. This project reflects CVAC’s commitment to making art accessible and engaging for the community while honoring the region’s natural beauty.
For more information about Derek Brennan and his work, visit www.derek-brennan.com or follow him on Instagram @derek_t_brennan.
About Derek Brennan
Derek Brennan is a Cleveland-based artist specializing in large-scale murals and encaustic painting. Since completing his first mural in 2016, he has painted nearly 50 public works, including a 728-foot mural for the Elevate the East campaign, one of Ohio’s largest murals. His work can be found at MetroHealth, The Cleveland Museum of Art Community Arts Center, Cleveland Public Auditorium, and throughout Sandusky and Fostoria. Brennan operates his gallery and studio at 78th Street Studios in Cleveland’s Gordon Square neighborhood.
About Cuyahoga Valley Art Center
The Cuyahoga Valley Art Center (CVAC) is a nonprofit visual arts organization dedicated to fostering an appreciation of visual art through education, exhibitions, and community enrichment opportunities. Each year, CVAC serves over 1,200 students, hosts seven juried exhibitions, and welcomes more than 12,000 visitors to its gallery. With a membership of over 450 artists, CVAC provides a space where artists of all backgrounds and skill levels can learn, create, and connect. Through its diverse programming, CVAC plays a vital role in enriching the local arts scene, ensuring that the visual arts remain accessible, engaging, and impactful for the community. For more information, visit www.cvART.org or call 330-928-8092.
Photo of Derek Brennan by: First Street Media