Here is a way to check out public artworks scattered throughout our vibrant city—perfect for those who love murals, meaning, and community. You’ll find these pieces on the interactive map pinned on my website here.
Whether you prefer exploring on foot or cruising by car, here is a guided experience highlighting murals large and small, each with its own story.
Tour Options:
1. Short North: Be The Light
- Where: 40 E. Lincoln Street (Lincoln Garage) in the Short North Arts District
- What: A mural featuring MLK Jr.’s quote “Darkness cannot drive out darkness…” – a beacon of hope on busy urban walls. Commissioned by Wood Companies and the Short North Alliance, this permanent piece joins the growing Short North mural collection 10tv.com+10columbusmakesart.com+10ahernandezart.com+10.
2. Village Idiot: Portal of Perception No. 1
- Where: Corner of West 8th & North High in the University District
- What: My mystical Godmask mural, inspired by Puerto Rican Vejigante tradition, symbolizing strength through mental health struggles. Supported by a GCAC grant and community partners blackcatmke.com+3universitydistrict.org+3universitydistrict.org+3.
3. Old North Arcade: Guardians of Old North
- Where: 2591 N High St.
- What: A vibrant 110‑foot mural funded by the GCAC Mural Assistance Grant. A neighborhood icon that Reddit users called “stellar” and “awesome!” ahernandezart.com+1experiencecolumbus.com+1.
4. Rickenbacker Airport: Tuskegee Airmen Memorial
- Where: Rickenbacker International Airport (Alum Creek Drive)
- What: A sprawling 39’×9’ mural honoring the Red-Tail Airmen who were stationed here post-WWII. Symbolic, historic, and accessible from the Cell Phone Waiting Lot columbusmakesart.com+9columbus.org+9universitydistrict.org+9.
5. Jackie O’s Brewery (4th Street)
- Where: 4th Street, Downtown
- What: A colorful mural featuring a bobcat homage, transforming bland brick into a local landmark citypulsecolumbus.com+3ahernandezart.com+3experiencecolumbus.com+3.
Loop back through Discovery District to admire other public art highlights like The Divine Twins by April Sunami, Current by Janet Echelman, and the Scioto Lounge bronze deer by Terry Allen along the river .
Tips for the Tour
- Best times: Early mornings or golden hour offer great lighting for photos.
- Route planning: Mix walking with a scenic drive for airport and brewery murals.
- Amenities: Short North and The University District have great coffee shops and restaurants—perfect for breaks between murals!
- Access: All pieces are in public view—either sidewalk-accessible murals or ones you can park near, even at the airport.
Why This Matters
Each mural tells part of our city’s story—whether it’s civil rights, cultural identity, or bringing color to overlooked walls. My goal is to connect art and audience, letting public spaces breathe with life. Every mural was created with community partners and public grants, showing how collective support shapes Columbus’s creative spirit.
Before You Go
Check the map on my website for precise locations. Tag @ahernandezart when you share—seeing my work through your eyes is the best reward.
Stay safe, be inspired, and enjoy our city’s art—whether on foot or wheels.