Art in Action: Transforming 135 Walton Street Through Creativity
- Brina Stairs
- Aug 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 2
August 11, 2025
Contributed by Developers Collaborative
In a powerful demonstration of artistic talent and community collaboration, Ryan Adams and Rachel Adams of Ryan Writes on Things have brought a wave of color and positivity to 135 Walton Street in Portland. Partnering with Developers Collaborative, the duo turned eight exterior walls into breathtaking murals that resonate with creativity and unity.
This project is particularly special as it represents a standout achievement for both Developers Collaborative and Ryan Writes on Things. For Developers Collaborative, it’s an inspiring testament to how development can enrich the community. For Ryan and Rachel, it’s their largest collaboration to date — a monumental effort that combines their unique artistic talents and vision.
“We had the honor of creating a mural for @developerscollaborative on Walton Street in Portland. The building houses an incredible range of tenants that truly represent community. For this project, Rachel created a quilt-themed mural that patched together classic Maine iconography, traditional quilt blocks, and community-themed verbiage. We are so excited to add this style to our visual library and combine Rachel’s love for quilts with my love for lettering.” — Ryan Adams
Photos by Developers Collaborative
A Beacon of Creativity and Unity
These beautiful murals are more than just art, they represent the spirit of connection and shared vision. Over the course of a month, Ryan and Rachel, alongside a dedicated team, poured their hearts into creating a space that celebrates the diversity and strength of the Walton Street community.
“We spent a month on Walton Street, and it is very clear that @waysidefoodprograms is the heart and soul of the area. It pumps out thousands and thousands of pounds of food to be dispersed across our state of Maine and into the homes of many who need assistance.”
The artwork is profoundly meaningful and reflects the unique character of the neighborhood. To make the experience even more engaging, the murals feature hidden Easter eggs for the community to discover — including one that holds special significance for Kevin Bunker, founder of Developers Collaborative, and his daughters.
“This mural is more than a beautiful addition to the building; it’s a symbol of what makes this community special. It reflects the creativity, resilience, and collaboration that define Walton Street and the people who live and work here. I’m especially grateful to Ryan and Rachel for incorporating elements that connect personally with my family and others in the neighborhood, it really makes this project unique and unforgettable.”— Kevin Bunker
Community Reactions: Art That Connects
Community feedback has further underscored the success and significance of the project. Instagram comments from locals beautifully highlight the connection the artwork has created:
“Just drove by the other day! Fantastic! Makes that corner pop and pulls it together. Love the work you both do!” – @debdono
“I walked by with my son when it began, so we admired it throughout the process. Immediately knew it was y’all! It made us smile so much, it's beautiful! Thank you!!” – @erinsmithers
“🔥🔥🔥 The patterns, imagery, lettering and size of this project together…🤯💯” – @mikerichdesigns
“Amazing as usual, y’all! Grateful to have this in the neighborhood. 🙌” – @bigjus1030
Ryan Adams Shares His Gratitude
The overwhelming support for the project highlights its meaningful impact. Ryan expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to be part of something so transformative:
“Thank you all so much for the opportunity and the support in making this happen. We formed some pretty great relationships with the tenants and neighbors along the way. I also can't tell you how many great reviews and comments we received from the folks in the neighborhood. People have reached out to me directly via social media, and there were people almost daily during that last week that stopped and talked to us about how much they love it. I really think we did something special here.”
More Than Murals: A True Community Hub
The vibrant murals at 135 Walton Street are just one part of what makes this space so special. The building has become a bustling community hub, home to a dynamic mix of local businesses and organizations that reflect the same creativity, resilience, and collaboration celebrated in the artwork.
Tenants include:
Speckled Ax – a beloved Portland coffee roaster
Wayside – a vital food assistance organization serving communities across Maine
Portland Distilling Co. – small-batch spirit makers adding a creative touch to the space
Team Green and Colin – contributing a plant-forward presence to the community
Nokian Tyres – innovators in eco-friendly transportation solutions
Bianca – a local artist and creative contributor to the building’s energy
Outside, picnic tables offer welcoming spots for coffee breaks, lunch, or casual conversation. The atmosphere is always active — neighbors walking their dogs, kids riding bikes, people pausing to admire the murals or catch up with friends.
It’s a place where art, business, and community naturally intersect. This environment is exactly what the murals reflect: a neighborhood alive with movement, creativity, and connection. The walls may tell the story — but it’s the people who bring it to life every day.