To Hum is Human

Murals with a Pulse: Listening to the Heart of a Community

Donnabelle Casis

What if a wall could do more than hold paint—what if it could hold a heartbeat?

In this new episode of 'To Hum is Human,' I sit down with Britt Ruhe, Executive Director of Commonwealth Murals, to discuss how public art serves as a vessel for connection, identity, and memory. Britt shares how her family legacy led her into community art and why empowering local voices is essential to truly transformative murals.

We explore what it means to create art with a community rather than for it, and how intuitive leadership, collaboration, and a deep respect for lived experience can turn a painting on a wall into a living story.

Britt speaks about murals as anchors—holding place-based memories and allowing neighborhoods to see themselves reflected with dignity. When people feel seen, something shifts. Art begins to heal.

If you’ve ever wondered how creativity can shape culture, foster belonging, and activate community pride, this episode will stay with you.

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