Introduction

Public art can serve many functions, from reinforicing design aesthetics to amplifying community voices. It can also take many forms, including street performances, murals, sculptures, and much, much more. When public art memorilizes individuals, it's done to both thank a person, or persons, for their commitment or sacrifice while also using their accomplishments to inspire others. 

In recent times, public art administrators have had to take an honest look at equity and inclusion within the field of public art. Art administrators have had to examine who has traditionally been memorilized and whose legacies have been left out of the conversation. 

It is being proposed that an investment be made to highlight the life and accomplishments of Luther Manus through the creation of public art. Luther, who turns 93 later this year, has dedicated his life to the service of others, through a career in the military, a career with Erie Public Schools, entrepreneural ventures, and Board and Committee service. Luther's family-owned gas station has operated in Downtown Erie for nearly 30 years. 

How can Luther's achievements inspire others in Erie to pursue a life of greatness through community service and continued education? 

Project Description

In 2019, Erie Arts & Culture formed the CHROMA Guild to advance access to resources and opportunities for creative and cultural professionals of color in Northwestern PA. Members of the guild recently indicated that they are interested in learning more about careers in public art. 

Valuing the stated objectives of the CHROMA Guild, Luther and Connie Manus have offered to have a mural created on the exterior retaining wall located on the western parameter of their gas station's lot. 

The project will be led by visual artists Antonio Howard and Ceasar Westbrook.  

Erie Arts & Culture has pledged $2,500 to this project. We are asking that the community assist us in raising an additional $2,500 to support the project and the artists who create the mural.

About the CHROMA Guild

The CHROMA Guild advances opportunities and access to resources for creative and cultural professionals of color in Northwestern Pennsylvania. The regional network builds both individual and organizational capacity by expanding equity and inclusion within the area’s cultural and creative sector. 

The CHROMA Guild advances its objectives through four core actions, including:

1. Networking
2. Professional Development and Continued Education
3. Advocacy
4. Presentation of Work 

Luther Manus Bio

Luther R. Manus Jr. was born in Erie, Pennsylvania in 1927. Luther dropped out of high school in 1943 and worked a stream of various jobs until 1946, when he was drafted into the United State Army. After basic training, Luther served in Hawaii, the Philippine Islands, and Japan until 1949. 

After completing his tour of service, Luther returned to Erie, where he completed a GED program. Luther then enrolled at Gannon University, where he was the first minority ROTC candidate and served with the US Army Reserve as a 2nd Lieutenant. Luther was the first in his family to graduate with a college degree. 

Luther went on to serve during the Vietnam War. His service earned him a Bronze Star metal. Luther retired from the US Army after a total of 24 years of military service. 

Luther started a new career by working for the Erie School District, starting in 1971. For 18 years, Luther worked as a counselor. He retired in 1989. During these years, Luther also served the community in a variety of Board and Committee positions, including sitting on Mayor Louis J. Tullio's Blue Ribbon Committee and the Erie Housing Authority's Board of Incorporators. It was during his tenure as a Board member that the authority erected Friendship Towers located at the intersection of E11th and French Street. 

Luther and his family formed Manus Enterprises, which owns and operates the Sunoco station located on E 12th Street between State and French Street. Manus Sunoco has served Erie's urban core for nearly 30 years. Manus Sunoco is both a minority owned and veteran owned service station and convenience store. 

Luther is married to Connie L Manus. Together, they've raised six children. Luther and Connie's commitment to serving others has been passed down to all of their children. The Manus family is passionate about assisting families and individuals with obtaining financial support to pursue post-secondary education.