Mural Makes Over Allen Entrance

Over the course of about a month earlier this fall, something exciting emerged on the exterior of Allen Dining Hall – a bright, bold, cheerful mural depicting Shenandoah University landmarks and the school’s Shenandoah Valley home. 

The concept for the massive piece, which glows with rich, vibrant hues and covers the entire main entrance wall of the dining hall, took about six months to realize, said the artist, Sarah Gallahan of Frederick County, Virginia. 

The initial idea, from Shenandoah University Vice President for External Affairs Scott Spriggs, combined food and SU structures. However, after collaborating with a few others, she and Spriggs decided on the final concept: local flora and structures iconic to Shenandoah. 

Gallahan is in her element surrounded by cans of paint, with a brush in her hand and working from scaffolding. “I love every aspect of mural work,” she said. “Getting to be outside, getting to work on a large scale, traveling to different locations, meeting new people, getting to study and learn new cultures. I love murals in general for the warm vibe they bring to communities, adding an artistic scene depicting community and culture.” 

Outside of the university, Gallahan’s work can be seen at an array of schools in the Northern Shenandoah Valley; Paladin Downtown in Old Town Winchester; Jiffy Sandwich Shoppe; West Oaks Farm Market; National Fruit Product Company; Frederick, Block, Brick and Stone; and Solenberger’s Home and Hardware. 

Further afield, her work covers walls at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, and West Virginia University.