New Mural In Downtown Columbia Part Of Paint The State Purple Program

COLUMBIA, MD — The Baltimore Ravens unveiled their latest mural Friday in the Merriweather District of downtown Columbia as part of their “Paint the State Purple” art program.

First launched in 2023 in Towson, the program aims to highlight the Ravens’ connection with communities across Maryland by engaging artists to not only represent the team, but the town, city or location in which the artwork appears, the Ravens program leaders stated.

Completed by renowned Baltimore artist Megan Lewis, the mural sits at the western side of Toastique, adjacent to Merriweather District’s Color Burst Park, which is a mixed-use green space that hosts community events throughout the year.

“This mural celebrates the beauty that comes from nurturing our youth,” Lewis said. “The boy is at the center, surrounded by a blooming garden. He is the light, the joy, the reason it flourishes. It’s a reminder that when we pour into young people, everything around them thrives. Behind him, silhouettes show two sides of Baltimore: one of community, music and connection, and the other of Ravens football just moments before a winning play.”

Fans and members of the community will have the chance to view the completed mural during the Merriweather District’s ninth annual Books in Bloom event on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to be held in Color Burst Park. At the festival, attendees can meet their favorite authors, discover new books and participate in events for all ages. Ravens cheerleaders and mascot Poe will also be on hand from noon to 1 p.m. for photos with fans in front of the mural. The event is free and open to the public.

“I’ve always been a Ravens fan,” Lewis added. “I’m proud to call both the team and this city home and to help beautify the place I love.”