Meet Lehigh Valley Mural Artist Hector Castro

Born of Puerto Rican and Salvadorian heritage, the artist grew up in the streets of Northern New Jersey during the 1990s. Surrounded by violence and gang-related issues, he found solace in art. “Art was my getaway. I needed a way to escape into my own world, and that’s where art came in. I thought I might not be in control of what’s happening around me, but I can control my own actions,” Castro shared. Through his artwork, he discovered a means of self-expression, a way to navigate the complexities of identity and find control amidst the chaos.

Embracing the Path of a Mural Artist

From his early days of graffiti and street art in New Jersey, the artist's journey as a muralist has been transformative. As he matured, his art evolved. “I would do artwork randomly, usually when I was going through much stress. When I faced hardships, I found myself drawing all the time,” said Castro. The turning point came when he began designing chalkboards for a local bar. Castro’s talent caught the attention of other businesses, leading to his first mural commissions. When the opportunity to bid for the AARP Pennsylvania Allentown Mural Project arose, he took the chance. Little did he know, it was the beginning of something remarkable.

Up Against the Wall

Undertaking such a large-scale project presented its own set of challenges. The artist spoke about the intricate planning and the meticulous grid system they used to bring their vision to life. Math played a significant role in ensuring every detail was scaled accurately. “The entire project took about two months from start to finish. It was such a massive wall, and I was fighting against the elements,” said Castro. Countless hours were spent preparing colors and calculating the paint needed to cover the wall. Rainy days and cold temperatures into the autumn months made for poor painting conditions, but he persevered, driven to create something positive and inspiring for the community.

A Symbol of Unity

When asked about the inspiration behind the mural design, Castro emphasized the power of public art to transcend barriers. While working on the mural, he shared how his interactions with people from all walks of life, including the homeless, highlighted the diverse perspectives within Allentown. “Public art is always going to unify people. It’s a tool you can use to communicate with people who live in completely different worlds,” the artist explained. The mural symbolizes life’s different stages and transitions, from childhood to adulthood to the elderly. It speaks of growth, abundance, and the ability to find joy and make decisions regardless of age. Through its vibrant colors and profound message, the mural serves as a unifying force, reminding everyone of the shared human experience and, in Castro’s words, “to grow and go in peace.”

Transforming Allentown and Beyond:

With its completion, the mural has begun to reshape Allentown. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to its beauty, finding renewed pride in their neighborhood. The artist spoke of individuals, both homeless and not, who have expressed their appreciation for the artwork, making special trips to witness its presence. More than just an aesthetic addition, the mural fosters a sense of connection and reminds people to look beyond their screens and embrace the beauty of the world around them.

Castro poignantly summarized it like this: “[Public art] helps out the community in ways that go deeper than words. It gives people hope. I’m just a paintbrush, delivering the colors. We have to come together in order to build each other up.”